Derek Paterson from Kelso is celebrating after walking away with a top honour at the ninth Scottish FA Grassroots Awards, presented by McDonald’s and the Sunday Mail.
Derek was named Best Volunteer in Youth Football at the awards ceremony held at Hampden Park on the 27th September. The awards celebrated the efforts of the tireless volunteers who give their valuable time and effort to provide footballing opportunities in communities across Scotland.
Derek Paterson set up the youth section of Kelso Football Club nearly ten years ago, since then teams have grown under his leadership and have proved successful outfits. Derek works tirelessly for the kids and Kelso FC helping to organise twice weekly training sessions, while also ensuring that coaches are in place for every age group and can provide the necessary training.
Derek additionally coaches primary school children every Friday evening as part of the SFA Soccer Centres. His role in the community is appreciated by parents, teachers and coaches across the entire region.
Scottish legend and McDonald’s Head of Scottish Football, Kenny Dalglish, praised Derek for his commitment to grassroots football in Scotland: “Football in communities is built on the dedication of people like Derek. Without the hard work and dedication of all the grassroots volunteers like Derek Scottish football simply wouldn’t exist. What Derek has accomplished over the past year to help develop football in the community and at his club is truly worthy of the recognition he received at the awards ceremony.
Derek added: “It is fantastic to have received the award and I feel extremely proud to do so. There are so many wonderful people involved in grassroots football in Scotland, it’s a great achievement to have been recognised in this way and I will never forget walking up to the stage to accept my award from the legend that is Kenny Dalglish.”
Dalglish added: “As a long-term supporter of football in Scottish communities, McDonald’s is proud to champion those that give up so much of their time, providing young footballers the opportunity to shine in a fun and friendly environment.”
The ninth Scottish FA Grassroots Awards, presented by McDonald’s and the Sunday Mail were held at Hampden Park on 27th September 2012. The awards cover ten categories including Best Volunteer in Youth Football, Best Community Football Club and McDonald’s Franchisee Community Champion Award.
Over the last 10 years McDonald’s has been committed to raising the standards of grassroots football, working alongside the Scottish FA. McDonald’s now support over 4,500 grassroots clubs, have created over 2,000 new community coaches and have seen the launch of 1,800 new football teams. By 2014 McDonald’s will work with the Scottish FA to encourage the participation of 13,000 new volunteers and 10,000 new coaches in grassroots football across Scotland.