Once the dust settles and we assess the National Game Awards, our thoughts often drift back to the category which we believe means the most to the person in possession of a glass decanter.
Every year we welcome managers, players, directors and personnel from all across the country. Some have put in the miles to make it to west London, setting off in the early hours. Some don’t even know why we’ve asked them along.
That’s often the case with one very special award we take pride in presenting every year.
‘We couldn’t do it without you’ is said a lot at the end of every season, but with the William Hill Fan of the Year that is quite literally the case – it just can’t work without your help.
It’s quite rare that the Fan of the Year isn’t one of the most memorable. Why? Because the person walking out with an NGA in a box under their arm always has passion for football flowing through their body.
But, while covering as many grounds as our team possibly can every year, we can’t be in a thousand places all at once. That’s why we are welcoming your input more than ever before – it’s our duty to ensure the right person leaves Stamford Bridge with their name engraved on the award on Wednesday, May 16.
This is where you come in. Do you know a super fan who travels the length and breadth of the country to back their team, come rain or come shine? What about a supporter who has had to endure turmoil off the pitch at their club – there’s been several examples of that this season too!
We want to hear if your club has a supporter who has reached a significant milestone after years of dedication.
Dedication
Put that person forward and our team will sit down and study the candidates to make certain we’ve got the right Fan of the Year!
It’s fair to say we got our man nearly ten months ago in Stalybridge Celtic fan Andrew Betts.
Despite being just 17 at the time, Betts had been playing a big part at Celtic for five years, attending almost all of their fixtures even though the club haven’t had a lot to shout about.
That’s not all, however, as he volunteers for pitch cleaning at Bower Fold, mans the turnstiles when needed, helps sells refreshments and also arranges supporters’ transport for away matches.
Now we need to find this year’s worthy recipient – and we need you to help us deliver a day they will never forget!
Please email [email protected] to cast your vote or use #NGAvotes on twitter or via post to
The Non-League Paper, Tuition House, St George’s Road, Wimbledon SW19 4EU