In a stunning upset, a 19-year-old volunteer coach has been named coach of the year at the FA Grassroots Football Awards.
Casey Young, from Crewkerne, Somerset, has cerebral palsy and coaches anyone aged five and over at Bristol City Cerebral Palsy FC twice a week as a volunteer. He was one of 12 award winners who formed a guard of honour at the Community Shield match between Arsenal and Manchester City ahead of kick-off on Sunday.
Young's dedication to his team is unwavering, despite having to undergo major surgeries. He travels an hour each way, twice a week, to coach the teams based in Brislington, Bristol, and has never missed a session.
According to the NHS, cerebral palsy is the name for a group of lifelong conditions that affect movement and co-ordination. Young's work is not only about teaching football skills, but also about building a sense of community and belonging among his players.
Young was one of 12 awarded coach of the year in the disability pathway at the FA Grassroots Football Awards in May, out of more than 12,000 nominations, and was officially awarded the prize on Sunday. Speaking after the game, Young said, "I still think I'm in shock now. Just the nomination I was really excited about. When I found out I had won, I've been in disbelief since."
The award is a testament to Young's hard work and dedication to his players. He said, "The football is the excuse, it's more the fact we're a community where we'll be your friend. We share the same struggles and the same success stories. It's the family and the community that keeps me going every week."
Young's family has a long history of involvement in football. His dad, Bob Young, won the same award three years ago. Bob said, "Casey has always known he wanted to be a coach and help other children with cerebral palsy. He wants to help them improve their lives, confidence, and their understanding of the football game itself."
Young's achievement is a source of inspiration for many. His story highlights the importance of inclusion and accessibility in sports. As Young himself said, "Receiving my award from Paul Merson was the proudest moment of my life, everyone made it so special."
The Community Shield match between Arsenal and Manchester City was a fitting backdrop for Young's award ceremony. Young, an Arsenal fan, said, "It was a moment I'll remember forever. The noise, the three trophies, all right in front of me, and all my favourite players walking past me."
Source: Yahoo Sports