Josh is Young Volunteer of the Year

04/11/2012 @ 03:48

Newtown's Josh Morris has been named the Coach of the Year finalist, Young Volunteer of the Year by Sport Wales.

Despite studying for a degree and working weekends to fund university, 18-year-old Josh still finds time to be heavily involved in the development and growth of football in Mid and North Powys.

A volunteer coach at Newtown Whitestars Junior FC, he coaches across the age-groups and is a member of the local coach mentoring group. He also recently completed his 200 hour Millennium Volunteering certificate.

"It's really nice to have someone think you're worthy of an award but I don't think I deserve it more than anyone else," commented the humble 18 year-old.

"I helped someone out with a training session one day and then did a bit of refereeing, and it just escalated from there."

And escalate it has. Josh is currently developing his coaching and officiating education. He gained his FAW UEFA Youth C licence Coaching Certificate and is a member of the Coach Mentoring Group set up by the local football development officer.

Also an up-and-coming referee, he is a member of the young referee mentoring group and officiates at a variety of game in the Mid and North Powys.

"I really enjoy it. It's seeing the young children learn and progress that's the main thing for me," adds Josh, from Newtown.

"It's also cemented my own personal development because I love it so much. I've started a degree in football coaching at the University of Glamorgan and I know this is what I want to do in the future.

"I would say to anyone thinking of volunteering or coaching to give it a try - it's so worthwhile. Just get involved and see what happens."

Josh is grandson of the late Keith Harding, a former chairman of Newtown FC and club stalwart who was involved in football locally and nationally throughout Wales through the Football Association of Wales and Central Wales FA Committee. Keith set up Newtown Whitestars Under-9's team for Josh and friends his age.

"As chairperson of Newtown Whitestars and Josh’s mum I am very proud of what he has achieved and he is an excellent role model for all our young players," said Nicky Morris.