New Tupton Ivanhoe Coach Lakeisha Burton was recently named the Derbyshire FA Grassroots Coach of the Year (Female pathway) at the Derbyshire Grassroots Football Awards.
Lakeisha was recognised for developing the Wildcats programme. The FA Weetabix Wildcats is non-competitive football for girls aged 5 to 11 who want to give football a go for the first time or want to play with other girls their age.
We caught up with her on what winning the award means and her love for grassroots football.
How does it feel to be named Derbyshire FA Grassroots Coach of the Year?
“When I found out, I was shocked. I never expected to be put forward for any of the awards with Derbyshire FA. Then all the emotions came, feeling happy, overwhelmed, proud and extremely grateful for being recognised for what I do as a Grassroots Football Coach.”
What is the most rewarding part of being a grassroots football coach?
“Being a grassroots football coach has its highs and lows. Sometimes, the lows outweigh the highs, as every Grassroots Football Coach will know, but the reward is when you see the smiles on the players’ faces during and after sessions and matches. Seeing them having a laugh and getting to know players individually and as a team and being able to share experiences, skills and knowledge that help them not only now but also hopefully have a positive impact on their lives as they get older.
Knowing you have potentially made a positive impact on a child’s life is the biggest reward for me as a coach – playing the beautiful game of football is just the bonus to it all.”
How important is it that you have a successful and supportive club to support you in being a grassroots coach?
“Without a supportive club behind you, you can’t be the best coach you need to be for the kids/players you coach. As mentioned before, being a Grassroots Football Coach has highs and lows, and you need a good club behind you to get through the lows and celebrate the highs.
Since being with New Tupton Ivanhoes FC, I have had support from other coaches, the committee, and massive support from Ant and Dave, all of which have helped me become the coach I am today. I look forward to continuing my coaching journey with the club.
Winning Club of the Year shows how successful the club is as a whole, and I’m proud to be part of that and volunteer alongside the coaches that I do within the club.”
If you have been inspired and are interested in getting involved in coaching, get in touch with Club Secretary Dave Hoult on 07759 048037
The Tupton Ivanhoe FC Wildcats takes place every Thursday from 5 – 6 at Pitch One on Tupton Rec and costs £3.
