Winners of the Grassroots Football Awards in Cumberland have been revealed.
The awards recognise and celebrate the people who put their heart and soul into the grassroots game across the county.
The awards are organised by Cumberland FA.
Winners
Match Official of the Year: Jackson Brooks
This award is for someone who has maintained high standards of officiating. However, they are also importantly someone who not only has a passion for the game, but have been an advocate for inclusivity and in creating a positive matchday experience by demonstrating respect, teamwork and integrity.
In his debut season as a young referee, Jackson has shown exceptional maturity and skill across a range of youth age groups.
His ability to manage games with confidence, communicate decisions clearly, alongside his dedication and professionalism make him a deserving winner.
Young Volunteer of The Year: Kyle Terry (AFC Carlisle)
Recognises a young person, aged 14-25, who has brought fresh energy, skills and ideas as a volunteer this season.
Kyle earned this award through his exceptional dedication and selflessness.
Over two seasons, he coached a youth team at AFC Carlisle, stepping far outside his comfort zone to support and inspire young players.
His commitment ensured that a group of children had the opportunity to play football—an opportunity they might have lost without his involvement.
Grounds Team of The Year: Chris Williams (Warwick Wanderers FC)
This award honours those who go above and beyond to maintain and improve the playing surfaces and facilities at grassroots clubs, and whose efforts are vital in keeping the grassroots game alive and thriving.
Chris is a valued, friendly presence at the club, volunteering countless hours to maintain the pitches at Downagate, while also running his own business and managing health challenges.
His dedication has improved pitch quality, reduced cancellations, and created more opportunities for kids to play.
New Volunteer of the Year: Stefanie Nixon (Warwick Wanderers JFC)
Awarded to an inspiring individual who has immediately had a big impact at a club, league, or other organisation.
Stefanie’s commitment goes far beyond the pitch – she’s a welfare officer, a hands-on organiser, and a dependable presence at the club.
What truly sets Stefanie apart is her unwavering positivity and willingness to help anyone in need.
Despite living with cystic fibrosis, Stefanie never lets it hold her back. Her resilience and selflessness inspire everyone around her, making her a truly deserving recipient of this award.
Positive Behaviour Award: Irwin Wallace (Castletown JFC)
Presented to a volunteer, club, league, or project that brings to life the standards of behaviour, helping to create a more positive football environment for all.
Irwin has led U6 coaching at Castletown for over 30 years, introducing thousands of young players in Penrith to football and supporting their growth into the game.
His influence extends beyond sport – many former players credit him with shaping their character and life success, with some now returning as coaches or parents.
Irwin stands out not just for his coaching, but for the values he instils respect, discipline, and a strong work ethic. His lasting impact on generations of players makes him a true role model and a deserving winner of this award.
Coach of The Year Disability: Martin McCarron (Bee Unique FC)
Judges were looking for a coach who leads by examples, creating a thriving learning environment that improves playing experience which has ultimately helped disabled players enjoy the game and reach their full potential.
Martin founded Bee Unique FC, an inclusive football club for neurodiverse children, offering tailored coaching and a safe, supportive environment.
His work has boosted confidence, skills, and wellbeing for children with autism across Cumbria.
Martin’s passion, empathy, and commitment have created a community where neurodivergent children feel seen, supported, and empowered. His work is not just commendable – it’s life-changing.
Coach of the Year (Female Pathway): Kate Smith (Workington St Joseph’s Walking Football Club)
This award looks to recognise a coach who has helped female players enjoy the game, improving their playing experience and uniting people through football.
Kate has revolutionised women’s walking football in Cumbria.
When no local team existed, she founded one herself – growing it to 30 players who now compete nationally and internationally.
She’s launched a system to help other towns form teams, organised women-only festivals, and successfully campaigned for inclusive league changes. Kate isn’t just a coach – she’s a game-changer.
Coach of The Year (Male Pathway): John Stoddart (Aspatria Juniors)
The FA Grassroots Male Pathway Coach of the Year award honours a coach who has made a big impact in male grassroots football by inspiring players and creating a positive environment.
John is chairman of Aspatria Juniors, but also the heart of the club.
He leads with passion, supports every age group, and runs open goalkeeping sessions that benefit young players across the community.
Even after his own son moved on, John stayed committed – coaching, mentoring, and embodying the spirit of grassroots football.
His selfless dedication makes a lasting impact, and the club simply wouldn’t be the same without him.
Club of The Year: Whitehaven Miners Social
The FA Grassroots Club of the Year award recognises a football club that has made an outstanding contribution to its community through its dedication, inclusivity, and development at the grassroots level.
Whitehaven Miners are a grassroots club with over 250 players across 14 teams.
They’re known not for trophies, but for their inclusive spirit, community focus, and commitment to developing people as well as players.
In 2025, the club faced immense tragedy with the loss of young player Jay Cartmell and long-time member Lee Jenkinson.
In response, they united the local football community, supported grieving families through memorials and tributes and provided stability through a safe, supportive space for teammates and friends.
Whitehaven Miners Social FC deserves to be Club of the Year not just for what they do on the pitch, but for what they do off it and the heart, unity, and humanity they bring to their community.
The Lioness Award: Emma Aimers (Carlisle Ladies Walking Football Club)
Aims to highlight the work of a coach, referee, volunteer, club, league or project that has moved women and girls’ football forward by having a big impact in their community and using football to inspire positive change.
Emma, secretary of Carlisle Ladies Walking Football Club, has been a key figure in growing women’s walking football in Cumberland.
She organises sessions, arranges lifts, secures sponsorships, and builds confidence in women to get involved.
Through football, Emma has transformed her own health and now inspires others to do the same.
Emma stands out for her passion, dedication, and the real difference she makes in her community.
The Bobby Moore Award: Eddie Williams
This is for a volunteer who represents the best of grassroots football. Someone or a group of people who are truly exceptional.
Eddie has dedicated over 20 years to coaching girls’ and women’s football.
His commitment to the sport has remained unwavering, even in the face of profound personal challenges.
After surviving a heart attack in 2019, Eddie was diagnosed in 2023 with a condition that severely impaired his vision – leaving him with just 5% to 10% eyesight.
Despite these life-altering events, Eddie returned to coaching, adapting his methods and continuing to inspire players.
His resilience and passion have helped countless individuals start, continue, or return to football.
However, what makes Eddie truly stand out, is his refusal to be negative or give up.
It’s this determination and adaptability, alongside a clear and deep rooted love for the game that not only embody the spirit of football but make him the worthy recipient of the Bobby Moore Award.
Spirit of Cumberland Football Awards
Nominations are now open for the 2024-25 John Twentyman Spirit of Cumberland Football Awards.
The awards celebrate the unsung heroes of the game – those who embody the true spirit of football in Cumberland.
Whether it’s a coach, player, official, volunteer, spectator, team, or even an entire club, the county FA wants to hear about the people making a real difference in grassroots football.
A panel of judges will review all nominations and select a shortlist of standout individuals or groups.
The final winner will be chosen through a 50/50 combination of public vote and judges’ scores. The winner will receive an FA Positive Football Club Package, including respect barriers, to support their club or organisation.
John Twentyman was a lifelong servant of the game and an honorary member of Cumberland FA until his death in 2022. Known for his unwavering commitment to fair play and community values, John’s legacy lives on through these awards that bear his name.
Nominations close at 5pm, Wednesday August 13 and the shortlist will be announced week commencing August 18.
