14-year-old Harry McNally is the Foundation's Young Leader of the Year

Harry McNally earned the title of Young Leader of the Year after his continued efforts throughout the season.

Harry wanted to get involved with AFC Fylde Community Foundation in Summer 2023. With him having just turned 14 and the Foundation's new matchday activities we believed it was the perfect time for him to join as a young leader.

Working alongside Foundation staff Harry supports the work the Foundation does on home matchdays, helping out with the Fans of the Future programme, Community Corner activities, flag waving and half-time penalties.

Harry has supported over 20 matchdays in the 2023/2024 seasons, equating to over 60 hours. He also follows the Coasters on away days with his family.

As a reward for his commitment this season, he has been gifted some AFC Fylde training kit which he will be able to wear when he continues his voluntary duties in the 2024/2025 season.

In September Harry will be starting his final year at High School whilst also finding the time to be a local junior referee.

Over the next 12 months Harry hopes to learn even more as he will continue to work in the community and alongside the Foundation's coaching team.

When he has completed his 100 hours of voluntary work and he turns 16, the community Foundation will be signing him up to the FA Introduction to Football coaching qualification.

Mick Whittle, Assistant Foundation Director said: “Harry has been brilliant all season, he turns up every week and never lets us down. "

Mick, who was there on Harry's first day, also said: "At first he was quite shy and would just wait to be told where to go and what to do, but as the season has progressed he has really come out of his shell.

"It's young people like Harry that will be key to supporting community work across Fylde for many years to come, hopefully he will want a career in sport and one day work for the Foundation”

“The Foundation run over 27 projects in the community and the work wouldn’t be possible without the team of employees we have.

"That work also needs the support of volunteers from the community, ensuring programmes that have been set up locally can continue beyond any funding we receive from our partners and stakeholders.

If you are interested in volunteering at the Foundation please email: michael.whittle@afcfylde.co.uk