Cornwall FA were delighted to visit Mark Richards to present the Grassroots Coach of the Year for Youth Award as part of the FA and McDonald’s Grassroots Awards 2021.

The Grassroots Coach of the Year for Youth Award recognises coaches who go above and beyond to provide a positive environment for their youth players, helping them to develop as a person and player.

Mark Richards started coaching for St Day AFC, the club he also represented as a player during his teenage years, several years ago when the club reinstated their youth section. With the increased interest of his son wanting to play football and St Day AFC looking for volunteers to support the youth section, Mark took the opportunity to become a club volunteer and coach.

When asked what Mark enjoys about his role he said, “I enjoy having a continued connection with my son's passion of football and being able to pass on my up to date knowledge and support. I feel also it's important to support the local Community and youth”.

After being awarded Grassroots Coach of the Year for Youth Mark added, “it's an honour to receive the award as it shows that commitment, dedication and hard work is recognised locally at grassroots level.

The support from both family, parents, players from both my teams the Choughs and Vogue Saints has been second to none and I would not have been recognised in this manner without them”.

Congratulations Mark!