Words John Edwards

The club are excited to announce that Altrincham FC Community Sports will feature prominently at this year's North West Football Awards after being recognised for their sterling efforts over the past 12 months in no fewer than three categories.

It is one of the most glittering, prestigious events on our region's sporting calendar, and it is a measure of the impact the charity arm of Altrincham FC continues to make in the area that they have been nominated for Community Club of the Year, Community Initiative of the Year for Alty Ability and Women In Football Promoting Inclusion for Alty Ability.

This year's showpiece occasion takes place on the evening of Monday, November 3rd at The Manchester Deansgate Hotel, and all Alty eyes will be on the judging panel's verdicts at what is a change of venue after The Point at Emirates Old Trafford previously played host.

One constant that hasn't changed is the star-studded guest list, with special performances and exclusive insights from some of the region’s most decorated footballing figures once more part of the running order, and Sam Mackenzie expressed her pride at Alty's involvement by saying:

"As CEO of Altrincham FC and a trustee of the Community Trust, it's fantastic to see all our wonderful initiatives, particularly those funded by Joseph Adams and his No Limits fundraising challenge, receive their due recognition with these nominations.

"I see the impact on a daily basis our Community Trust team has on the local area. The football club and our fans are extremely proud of the contribution they make to improving people's lives, and we celebrate their nominations and wish them luck on the night."

Head of Community Simon Dow added: “We are delighted to be shortlisted for three such fantastic awards. As the official charity of Altrincham FC, we take great pride in using the power of football to support the physical and mental wellbeing of the residents of Altrincham and South Trafford.

"It is particularly pleasing to be able to highlight the amazing impact that the Joseph Adams No Limits fundraising has had on the charity and our participants, enabling us to reach the people that need our support the most.

"Thank you to the North West Football Awards for shortlisting our programmes, and a huge thank you to Joseph Adams and family for everything they have done for Altrincham FC Community Sports.”

The North West Football Awards has always placed a great emphasis on acknowledging the impact of football at all levels and shining a light on the efforts and accomplishments of those most closely involved.

Its founder, Laura Wolfe, commented: “The NWFA has always been about more than just top-flight clubs. It’s a celebration of football at every level, from local legends to fan favourites, all sharing one thing in common - their impact on the game in the North West.

"We are so excited to be returning with a new venue, with a new brand and new categories, for what promises to be another unforgettable night."

At Altrincham FC Community Sports, we believe in creating opportunities for everyone to thrive, regardless of ability.

The Alty Ability Programme has been designed to break down barriers, build confidence and celebrate what people can achieve. The programme includes Pan Ability Football, Junior Disability Multi Sports, Adult Social Sessions, SEND PE sessions and festivals in schools and sensory items to support children and adults with SEND to enjoy the match day experience.

This year’s work has been made possible thanks to the incredible fundraising of Joseph Adams and his family.

Born with Down Syndrome, Joseph, with the help of his family, has always focused on positivity, determination and strength, and that has enabled Joseph to take on any challenge. It’s with this outlook that the Alty Ability Programme was born.

The challenge he took on - running 10 x 10km distances across 10 countries in just five days - was no small feat, especially as running is far from Joseph’s favourite activity.

Yet, with the same resilience that’s seen him become a national swimming champion, he completed it, raising vital funds that now power the Alty Ability Programme.

Well done, Joseph, and the best of luck to Altrincham FC Community Trust for their big night at The Manchester Deansgate Hotel next month!