Gregg Dyke announcing the wothy winners at Wembley Stadium on Charity Shield Day
Bengeo Tigers have been named England’s Grassroots Club of the Year in the 2015 FA Respect Awards
The national award recognises Bengeo Tigers exceptional work in providing boys and girls with an experience of football which is fair, safe and enjoyable for all.
The announcement marks an incredible week for the Hertford based club, who were presented with the Hertfordshire FA’s Charter Standard Community Club of the Year last week by former England and Arsenal Ladies captain, Faye White.
When accepting the Community Club of the Year award, Bengeo Tigers Chairman, Dave Thomas, commented upon the club’s recent recognition by saying:
“A few years ago our committee set out with a vision for this club. We didn’t set out with goal to win this award or any award for that matter, we set out with a goal to create a positive environment for children to learn and love the game.”
“However to be recognised for what we’ve achieved with our ethos is brilliant, and I have to say thank you to the volunteers, parents and players of our amazing club. Their loyalty, hard work and humility have made us into the club we are.”
A judging panel including both Stephanie Moore MBE and Trevor Brooking CBE identified the club’s commitment in executing a zero tolerance approach to ‘respect’ issues, in addition to the energy the Tigers had shown to set and maintain its high standards as key aspects in their decision.
The approach has been credited with influencing a complete culture change at the cub over the past few seasons.