ROFC win Hackney Sports Club of the Year Award

Last night the volunteers and players of ReachOut!’s affiliated football club (ReachOut FC) had a moment of stardom as they took to the stage of Hackney Empire to receive the Hackney Sports Club of the Year Award!

The Award, recognising excellent club development work within Hackney for the benefit of the local communities, was presented by Anthony Joshua, Super Heavy Weight Olympic Champion.

As half of ROFC piled onto the stage (most of the U15s team was there along with two kids from the U12s, as well as volunteers Pete Blackwell, Tim Birtwistle and myself, representing the girls team!), turns were taken to hold Anthony’s gold medal and a couple of boys were lucky enough to wear it!

“I feel kinda like a celebrity!” commented ROFC U15s player Tionne.

Later, the Olympian gave some sound advice to Hackney’s young people and aspiring sports men and women, explaining how you have to make the right decisions on the weekends to be able to train hard on Mondays, and when asked what he would do if someone tried to punch him, he replied jokingly “I’d run away!” but followed it up explaining that it wouldn’t be right to retaliate, and that you shouldn’t get yourself into the position when someone wants to punch you in the first place!

The event was compered by the hilarious stand-up comedian Kat B who kept us all entertained throughout the evening but also had a few parting words of wisdom for us – whatever you want to do, be an Olympian, lawyer, doctor, consultant, or even a bin man – do it to the best of your ability. Good advice I’d say.

To find out a bit more about why the football club was nominated click here and if you’re interested in supporting ROFC, we’re always looking for volunteers who are available on the weekends to help take children to matches – if you think you might be interested please get in touch via the website www.reachoutfc.com thanks!

By Fran Blackwell