I am incredibly proud and privileged to have had the opportunity to have led the foundation as CEO for almost a decade. Now feels like the right time for someone new to build on the foundation’s legacy and progress we have made over recent years. The foundation is the envy of many clubs across the country due to the facilities we have developed and with the talented workforce it has, I am confident it will continue to make a real difference to communities across Shropshire.
A special mention should go to my predecessor and former Salop player, Brian Williams. I inherited a well-respected community scheme across the football network that gave me the opportunity to further develop the football club’s presence in the community. Also, former CEO Matt Williams for giving me the opportunity to join Shrewsbury Town Football Club at a relatively young age. The support and trust he gave me was so important in the early days.
I have nothing but fond memories when looking back on my journey here. The support manager Micky Mellon gave the foundation in the early days really supported my mission of connecting the football club to the community. His ability to embrace a whole football club and community remains unrivalled and with players committed to supporting the foundation like Andy Mangan, Micky Demetriou, Mat Sadler, Omar Beckles, Dave Edwards, Elliott Bennett, and Harry Burgoyne, we really have created some lifelong memories for fans young and old.
The foundation is supported by the chairman, the Board of the football club, and the Board of Trustees who have all provided superb guidance and challenge. A special mention to both Ryan Jervis and Howard Thorne who have held the position of Chair. As a trustee, they volunteer their time for free and I have enjoyed having a close working relationship with both.
The growth and success of the foundation comes down to one factor – great staff. I continue to enjoy seeing staff deliver with so much passion and professionalism. I have also taken great pride in seeing staff progress into some great jobs across the UK and beyond. Their hard work and commitment are the main reasons for the continued success and why I am so confident the foundation will continue to flourish across Shropshire.
Finally, a thank you to all the participants, parents, partners and sponsors, all of whom have contributed to an incredible time for Shrewsbury Town FC Foundation.
