We are delighted to announce Cheshire's very own Tony Mitchell has won The FA National Coach of the Year for Youth Award!

The National Winners for The FA and McDonalds Grassroots Awards have been selected from a record breaking 4,761 nominations!

Tony's award was announced yesterday by The FA, here is his story. 

Tony Mitchell is a man who brings joy to children through his hard work and love of football.

He's a man who believes everyone should have a chance. Thanks to him, youngsters who are unable to compete in local teams have been given the opportunity to grow and shine in the Junior Disability Team he created from nothing. Without Tony, there would be no team and those kids would miss out on so much.

Tony Mitchell is also a man who has had more than his fair share of adversity to overcome, suffering from Parkinson's disease and progressive supranuclear palsy. Despite this, his hard work and incredible dedication has taken Winsford Over 3 Junior FC Disability Team to the next level.

He's there, week in week out, pushing these youngsters to succeed, children with impairments ranging from cerebral palsy, autism and Down's syndrome. He even serves as Club Chairman and the team that he created now boasts over 60 members all with new kits, raincoats and a desire to make the most of all joy that football brings.

The standards are higher than ever and the enjoyment is there for all to see.

Ton'y achievement is a truly remarkable one.

Football is a game For All. It is people who make grassroots football happen week-in, week-out. From supporters, referees, coaches or volunteers, The FA's 2020 winners are those whose actions and behaviour make The FA’s PRIDE values part of the game for their clubs, leagues and communities. It’s for people who when faced with a global pandemic keep their communities together.