Young Aycliffe players celebrate end-of-season presentation night

By Adam Cayless

It was a full house at Woodham Academy on Saturday, July 6, as Newton Aycliffe FC Junior Section hosted their 25th Annual Presentation Day.

The event was a great celebration of a successful season for the twenty-one teams at the club, with players, their families and coaches all coming together to recognise the players’ achievements.

Players as young as four-years-old up to our U16s and Wildcat girls gathered to celebrate.

To seat such large numbers with almost 300 players in attendance, there were three sessions over the course of the day, kicking off at 9am and ending just in time for the players to watch the England quarter-final Euro game together at 5pm.

Each age group took centre stage, proudly receiving their participation trophies and awards.

A special mention to Aidan Warburton, Phill Brumwell and their U13 squad who were awarded “Team of the Season” by chairman Adam Cayless, for their fantastic team ethic, inclusion of players, great form over the season and back-to-back promotions.

Simon Aspinall was awarded the “Chairman’s Award” for his efforts in developing new teams at younger age groups.

There were some farewells as managers Andy Lee, Scott Hayward, Iain Jackson, George Slatcher, Peter Strevens, Michael Labron and David Teder move on to pastures new.

There were also several new managers presenting awards on stage for the first time with their new teams formed this season, a fantastic effort and no stage fright!

Nominated Awards were awarded to each team; Golden Boot, Players Player, Player of The Season, Managers Player and the “wildcard” award that each team could pick for themselves. These ranged from “Most Improved” to “Most Assists” with one team also opting for “Parents Player of Season”.

“It’s fantastic to see so many happy faces here today,” said Adam Cayless, club chairman.

“This club is all about fostering a love for the game and providing a positive and safe environment for our young players to develop their skills. Days like this are a real highlight, they show what an amazing club we have and I am so proud. It makes all the hard work so worthwhile.”

The event wasn’t just about celebrating individual achievements; it was also a chance to acknowledge the tireless efforts of the coaches and volunteers who dedicate their time to nurturing the next generation of football players.

A special recognition was given to club secretary Vicki Aspinall, club welfare officer and pitch coordinator Neil Churcher and club treasurer Joanne Collett for their efforts over a season which was made very problematic due to such bad weather.

A huge thanks is given from the club to the parents who get behind the teams every week, whatever the weather and whose support helps make presentation days so special.

Also thank you to the staff at Woodham Academy for their hospitality and providing the venue for such a big event.