In praise of Heswall FC volunteers in general, and Bob Woollyback in particular

Above: browse through more pictures

"Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth."

Wise words from the late, great Muhammad Ali, and highly appropriate when we consider the immense contribution of the volunteers who support Heswall Football Club in so many ways.

Admittedly, Heswall FC may never impact this world in the way the greatest heavyweight did, but we can all make an impression on our own little piece of the planet, and after a challenging 12 months of coronavirus, it feels appropriate to pay homage to our fabulous volunteers - who give so much and ask for nothing in return.

We are blessed with a group of people who give their time and make sacrifices to support our club. Managers, coaches, players, committee members and supporters work so hard, giving their skills, abilities, passion and knowledge to keep our great club running.

We rely so much on their love of both football and Heswall FC. Their drive, creativity and dedication allow us to build the club both on and off the pitch. We shall be forever grateful for them.

This season at Heswall FC we have been given a gift money can't buy with the welcome arrival of Bob Shaw. Known to many simply as 'Woollyback', Bob started visiting Gayton Park to watch games as a lover of football, but one disillusioned with the modern professional game.

Many will have seen the photos taken by Bob here on Heswall Nub News and other local news outlets, as well as social media platforms. The photographs are, however, the tip of the Iceberg of what Bob brings to our club. His enthusiasm and support of Heswall FC has grown to be both infectious and inspiring.

With his wit, humour and storytelling, Bob has become a regular and much loved fixture at Gayton Park, with his cheery disposition and willingness to fend off mostly good natured match day banter from the opposition.

After a couple of recent defeats, Bob decided we needed to go old school and brought the lads some oranges for half time. Needless to say the results followed and the lads were extremely grateful to Bob for a simple gesture that was also symbolic of the impact he has made on Heswall FC.

Thankfully, football has a way of bringing out these great characters who support their local grassroots clubs, and we are sure there are more people out there who may like an opportunity to watch local games and perhaps get involved too.

Many of us have something to offer, and the club extends an open invitation to anyone local to Heswall FC to come along and support their local club in whatever way they can.

If you wish to get involved and become one of the men, women and youngsters who live and breathe the crazy world of amateur football, well, at Heswall FC there is a welcoming home just waiting for you.

Today Litherland Remyca Development visit Gayton Park to face our First Team in a huge game as we push to get over the line in the race for promotion.

Bank Holiday Monday brings cup action in the Wirral District FA Competitions as the First Team travels to Vauxhall Motors to face their Reserves in the Senior Cup, while our Reserves face Poulton Royal Reserves at Gayton Park. Both games kick off at 3pm.

Hopefully it won't be long before you'll be able to come and watch!