#BBFAStars is about recognising the inspirational work of volunteers across the county all-year-round.

It’s a way for us, as the County FA, to say ‘Thank You’. Thank you for all your time, effort and relentless dedication to the game across Berks & Bucks FA. It’s also a way for your peers, your friends, fellow volunteers and local communities to recognise the people, often in the background, that help keep their clubs & leagues alive, week-in & week-out.

The roles we celebrate in #BBFAStars are not always in the spotlight, but the people that take them on often do so through a love of the game.

#BBFAStars is not only about recognising their individual efforts but also about showing you a side of the game that you don’t often see.

Here, Marie Cobb of FC Bracknell talks about why she does what she does, and what it means to be a Club Secretary. Asked first, what it feels like to be our winner, Marie said;

"I feel very privileged to of won the secretary award. It was really nice to get all the support from not only the FC Bracknell coaching team, but the parents and players too."

The Secretary is one of the most important roles in a club or league. The main point of contact for the county, team managers and clubs/leagues, the Secretary will look after the administrative duties for the club/league and whilst it can be very demanding, it can also be an incredibly rewarding and satisfying role.

"I have been with Fc Bracknell for 10 years now, I took on the Secretary role, to help the amazing Chairman Neil Graham and the club out with the daily running of everything, as without all the volunteers we have, the children wouldn’t be able to play football.

"To be part of such a successful family focused club means a lot, it’s nice being able to do something for the community."

Getting involved with your football club in a role behind the scenes can bring a lot of satisfaction and open the doors to new experiences & opportunities; from seeing both the club and people around you grow & succeed to meeting new, passionate people along the way.

For those people thinking about becoming involved in the sport and perhaps in the Secretary role, Marie has this message: "For anyone thinking of becoming a football secretary, I would say the key is to be organised. It’s a worth while role."

Vote for your next #BBFAStars winner

Our next #BBFAStars Award for Chairperson is open for nominations right now, so if you know want to say thank you to the person at your club or league, all it takes is a simple comment on our post, below:

 

To find out more about the awards, and how to nominate, visit #BBFAStars - alternatively, keep your eyes peeled on our Instagram account for the nomination posts to appear throughout the season.

If you would like to find out more about the types of volunteer roles available in grassroots football or about becoming a club secretary and working with your local club, please contact a member of the team via email, or call on 01235544890 for an informal conversation.