Up and Down sort of week

Well last week did have it's ups and downs!!!

Teachers v 6th Form match was played last week. It's always fun, challenging and physically demanding. Both sides have really good players, and although we are teachers and students, we have such good friendships, this game allows us to show what good mates we are.

The 'Ground Hopper' was great and so well attended. In fact one of the ground hopper spectators had traveled from Edinburgh to watch the match that I ran the line for this afternoon. He had traveled as he had heard that one of the teams from today was possibly having to join with another team for next season, so this would be their last match - That's passion for the 'Grassroots game.

Tuesday at Kick it Out Womens 'Raise your Game' was amazing, with truly inspirational women giving up their time to help, mentor and assist other women to pursue the jobs they want, in the industry they love.

Wednesday was the County Final. Radcliffe v Nottingham Forest. Nottingham Forest were by far the better team. We just weren't passing as well as we should have been. I was up front with three defenders constantly breathing down my neck. It was unfortunate in the first half as when Forest won the toss they chose very tactically - Our Goalie couldn't see the ball because of the sun shining so brightly and being so low - it was almost like she was trying to catch a cloud. That being said Nottingham Forest, did deserve to win, without a doubt - I was a tad upset!!!!

Thursday sent everything into prospective. My Mum sat down with me to tell me that a close friend had died of cancer. He died on Monday, but because I had a lot on this week it was kept from me until after the county cup.He was a lovely, kind hearted, genuine gentleman. I'm so grateful that I could call him a friend. He fought a hard battle, and smiled to the end - RIP Taff.

Today I refereed the under 16's at Nottingham Forest Academy, versus Stoke. Although Stoke won, I felt that Nottingham were the better team. It was a fast paced match, with clever moves and powerful players on the pitch. One of the Forest players in particular is someone to look out for in the future.

This afternoon I ran the line at Trent University, the home of Unity FC, as they played Bingham. Unity were by far the better team. They should have had three in the first half, but the Bingham Goalie worked really hard. It was a good game, very passionate, very end to end. Unity won 2-1

Today I was also fortunate to be able to watch some of the games of the 'Wheelchair Football' championship.Truly amazing players, truly amazing families and carer's who support the teams. The games were great. I haven't watched them before, but was blown away by the speed and skill of the players. The camaraderie of everyone was wonderful, such a pleasant place to be. I spoke with one of the parents who told me a little more about how involved they are;

• The wheelchairs cost between £6000 and £8000 each
• Due to the number of teams the games require a lot of travelling around the country
• There is often a requirement to stay in hotels each weekend

No one would deny paying out any of the above because it is so important in their lives.The Dad I spoke to did tell me that Manchester City do support their local Wheelchair team and have provided a lot of equipment for them. Maybe all the professional teams should look at supporting fantastic teams like the wheelchair clubs. That would impress me!

Have a look at the link below for an insight into the wheelchair teams

www.thewfa.org.uk/