Representatives from both clubs were invited to attend Norfolk County FA’s Senior Cup Final at Carrow Road, home of the new Division One Champions Norwich City FC for an official presentation of the Charter Standard Community Club Award.

Representatives from the Clubs were invited as guests to sit in the Directors Box at Carrow Road to watch local Ridgeon League Sides Diss and Wroxham play an epic Senior Cup Final and then during half-time in front of an excited crowd of 2000 people, the clubs received an official presentation from Roger Howlett, Chief Executive and Brian Woodhouse, Chairman of Norfolk County Football Association.

At the same time, Asa Saunders, Football Development Officer at the Norfolk FA was interviewed by the BBC Radio Norfolk Football Commentary Team, praising both Clubs for the tremendous work they have achieved.

Taverham FC affiliated 12 youth/Mini Soccer teams, 3 Girl’s teams, 3 Adult teams, one Ladies Team, and 1Veterans’ team for the 2003-04 Season.  Chris Bussens, the Chairman was heavily involved with in making sure Taverham FC gained both the FA Charter Community Award and FA Charter Standard Adult Award. 

One of Chris's first tasks was to make sure that all coaches were qualified and the club now has 32 qualified Coaches with the JTM Award, Level 1 or Level 2 Coaching Qualification. Taverham FC is involved in the FA Community TOPS Scheme and has excellent links with schools.  With the club developing every season they had the desire to be recognised with the FA Charter Standard Community Club Award and now have big plans for developing their facilities.

Mulbarton Wanderers/Belles FC became Norfolk’s first FA Charter Standard Club in December 2001 and now provides football for 6 girl’s teams, 8 youth teams, 2 ladies teams and one men’s team.  The Club also has sponsorship from a local McDonalds Restaurant. 

Paul Minns, the Chairman of the club had the desire with the rest of the committee to acknowledge Mulbarton’s developments and achieve the FA Charter Standard Community Club Award.  Due to the Club’s size they appointed a Volunteer Co-ordinator, Schools Liaison Officer and Parent Representative Co-ordinator.  The Club now has a detailed development plan to enable them to develop their facilities and maintain the correct standards during the next 5 years.

Asa Saunders, Football Development Officer at Norfolk FA worked closely with both Clubs last year and organised the presentation for them.

He said: “Both clubs enjoyed the evening and were proud to receive the award on the Carrow Road pitch, and after a years hard work all the clubs players, coaches, parents and committee members can feel very proud of becoming a Community Club.”

For more information on getting involved in local football, email: Asa.Saunders@NorfolkFA.com