AHF FC scores two awards

AHF FC is one of just six Lancashire-based grassroots football teams to have secured an FA Community Award this year.

In 2012, AHF FC started off as an idea in the minds of a group of local friends wanting to make a difference to their community. In just three years, the club has gone from strength to strength, and this award has firmly established the organisation's place in Blackburn's community football sphere.

The prestigious FA Community Awards recognise the differences people have made to grassroots football across the country and in their local community, as well as praising those who have dedicated their time to developing tomorrow’s young talents while ensuring safety and best practice in the tens of thousands of clubs across the country.

AHF FC has rapidly become one of the most exciting and innovative football clubs in the North West. With the support of local volunteers and businesses, the club has over 300 child members and 9 teams partaking in league football. It has developed a unique holistic programme, which has helped it to train even more happy and wholesome young footballers.

Club chairman, Noormohamed Valli, said: “We're so pleased at winning the award. Knowing we've been nominated by people within the community is so gratifying. The award really does recognise the amazing work our volunteers have put into the club over the last 2 years.

"The support we've had from everyone at 24|7 Home Rescue has been absolutely crucial to our success. A big heartfelt thank you from everyone at AHF FC."

Representative of the East Lancashire ELFA League and director at Lancashire FA, Peter Thornton, said: “Everyone at ELFA is extremely proud of AHF FC - a well-run club with a great ethos that is always putting the kids first."

AHF FC will now go on to represent the region in the National Awards before a judging panel featuring 1966 World Cup winner and McDonalds' director of football Sir Geoff Hurst.

The FA Community Awards, which are presented by McDonalds, aim to recognise and reward the organisations and people who support grassroots football.