The event, which took place on Monday 7th June 2004 at the Hertfordshire Sports Village, celebrated the achievements of all of the FA Charter Standard accredited football clubs in the county.

One of the main purposes of the evening was to introduce the new Football Development Team at the Hertfordshire FA and outline the level of support available to club personnel in their voluntary roles.

During the evening the team delivered a series of presentations on key issues such as coach education, women and girls football, facility development, and funding opportunities.

In addition to providing information and advice, the event saw the County FA Charter Standard Awards presented to clubs and individuals who in the past year have scaled new heights in providing football opportunities and are examples of good practice for other clubs to follow.

The six categories and this year’s winners are:

· Charter Standard Adult Club:  Bengeo Trinity FC
· Charter Standard Club:   Letchworth Garden City Eagles
· Charter Standard Development Club: Bedwell Rangers FC
· Charter Standard Community Club: Harvesters FC
· Charter Standard Administrator Award: Paul Kirkal & Neil Deacon
  (St Albans City Youth)
· Charter Standard Coach Award;  Steve Chittenden (Harvesters)

Daniel Clarke, Football Development Officer for Club Development at the Hertfordshire FA said:

“The purpose of the evening was to develop our relationship further with our Charter Standard clubs, all of which have met strict criteria in terms of ensuring that young people and adults can participate in football in a safe, well organised and progressive environment.

"We also wanted to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of all our Charter Standard Clubs for what they have done over the last year.”

“The evening was well attended and we are looking forward to making this a regular event which will grow each year as more clubs become accredited.”

The benefits of gaining the FA Charter Standard range from access to FA resources, funding opportunities, increased profile and in addition, parents know that by sending their child to an FA Charter Standard club it is going to be safe, with qualified coaches and good management structures.

The award is also available to adult clubs who can demonstrate good management practices, codes of conduct, insurance and first aid qualifications.

If you are a club that would like more information about gaining the FA Charter Standard Award or if you would like information about future events please contact:

Daniel Clarke, Football Development Officer (clubs), on 01462 650 208 or e-mail daniel.clarke@hertfordshirefa.com