Three Sussex grassroots football volunteers were among a select group to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience at Wembley Stadium, after being recognised for their outstanding contribution to the game.

Jamie Dalby (Wick Dynamos Inclusive), Claire Withams (Peacehaven & Telscombe Women's Walking Football Club) and Anne-Marie Pier (Bexhill United Ladies) were rewarded with the opportunity to step onto the iconic Wembley pitch as part of The FA's Thank You campaign, which celebrates the dedication of volunteers across grassroots football.

In total, 28 volunteers from around the country took part in the exclusive match, organised by The FA and delivered as part of the England Football Family programme. The day provided a full Wembley matchday experience, with volunteers changing in the England dressing rooms, wearing personalised kits, and seeing their names and thank-you messages displayed on the big screen.

For Jamie Dalby, who also recently won our Disability Coach of the Year Award at our annual awards evening, the occasion was a fitting reward after a landmark year at Wick Dynamos Inclusive.

“It has been a fantastic year seeing our SEND teams at Wick Dynamos grow and the launch of our own business Able Kicks. Winning Coach of the Year was amazing, but to get to play on the pitch at Wembley was definitely a pinch-yourself moment. To score a goal was a dream come true,” Jamie said.

“To be recognised for the hard work we do definitely makes it all worthwhile and has given me great incentive to work even harder next year.”

Claire Withams described the experience as the fulfilment of a childhood dream, having been nominated for her work as both a coach and chaplain at Peacehaven & Telscombe Women's Walking Football Club.

“Being able to play on the pitch at Wembley enabled me to live out a childhood dream,” Claire said.

“I believe that coaching and providing a high level of pastoral care enables players not only to reach their goals, but establishes good mental and physical health and wellbeing. I will never forget the day at Wembley and all the effort and extras that were provided, it was really special.”

Anne-Marie Pier, who was nominated for her work with Bexhill United LFC's Wildcats programme, said: “It was an incredible experience, and an opportunity to do something I never thought would be possible. I didn't stop smiling all day, and it was topped off by scoring a penalty!”

“I'm so grateful for the nomination for my work with the Wildcats Programme at the club. It's been a privilege to coach these sessions and see the girls develop into playing regular football at Bexhill United LFC and to be able to grow our girls sessions and teams.”

“It's a really lovely thing for England Football to do, and a fantastic way to recognise and thank volunteers for the work that is done across the country!”

Ben Grady, Senior Volunteering Development Manager at The FA, said:

“Seeing the smiles on volunteers' faces as they walk out at Wembley is a real joy. These individuals, like so many grassroots volunteers, give their time and expertise to make grassroots football happen every week, so being able to give something back with an experience like this is incredibly rewarding.”

Article from Sussex FA Website : Article Link