The long standing chairman of a youth football club in Abbots Langley is to step down after eight years at the helm.
Tony Bullock originally started as a parent coach at Abbots Youth Football Club and during his time has steered the club through numerous changes to youth football while also ensuring that its volunteer coaches and assistants have the necessary qualifications.
Tony said he started helping as a parent when his son was eight – this summer he finishes university.
Tony said: “I didn’t intend to become a coach, but as many others have found, it was an immensely rewarding accident. Working with young players as they grow up, teaching them basic football skills as well as the importance of being in a team, and seeing them flourish as players and young people has been great.”
Tony said he is pleased to have put a little back into the community.
He added: “I am proud that the club has continued not to stream players like other clubs – for Abbots Youth FC it’s all about the playing and enjoying football for all abilities. At 11 a-side the game is more competitive, but for the younger age groups it is the taking part, in a safe and secure environment that is paramount.”
Tony said he is pleased to leave the club financially sound and revealed he will still be with the club for some time yet.
He said: “I am pleased to have held the torch for a few years, made a contribution, but after so long I feel it is right to give someone else the chance to take the Club forward and the new Chair will be elected at the AGM in July.
“I leave the club financially sound with a great group of coaches and committee members that make the club what it is. I will continue to coach a new intake of Under 6 children with Steve Gray so I will still be around Manor House for a while to come.”
Abbots Youth FC Secretary Martin Dean said Tony will be missed.
He commented: “Tony has been the backbone of the club for a number of years although he deserves a break given he’s got a very pressurised ‘day job’ as well. Clubs like Abbots Youth knit the community together but they rely on people like Tony giving time and energy to keep the show on the road.”
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