DAWLISH United Youth and Mini Soccer Football Club were honoured at The Football Association Devon Football Family Awards evening with a county prize.

Nick Reed, the club’s welfare officer, was selected as the recipient of the Safeguarding Award for Devon.

This event took place at Winslade Manor, Clyst St. Mary at the end of last month. Over 160 people attended the dinner including representatives from Plymouth Argyle FC, Marie Hourihan and Matt Green, and representing Torquay United FC, Paul Wotton.

Writer, broadcaster and radio legend David Fitzgerald, formerly of BBC Radio Devon, was the compere for the night.

Talking about Nick, Fitz said “His impact goes far beyond policies and procedures. Nick has helped to create a culture of safety, trust, and inclusion at the club, ensuring that every player, coach, and volunteer feels supported.

“His approach is personal and proactive; he doesn’t just respond to issues from a distance, he gets out and visits people, offering a friendly face and sound advice when it’s needed most.”

The evening was celebrating everything that volunteers have done over the past year to support grassroots football in Devon. Over 33 people who give their time for free to the youth of Devon were presented with varying awards from Young Referee of the Year to the Positive Behaviour Award.

Talking of the Young Referee of the Year and that title went to Buckland Athletic U18 midfielder Lacie Tucker- congratulations are in order for her as well.

Back to Dawlish’s recipient and club secretary Bob Tranckle said, “I see first-hand the incredible amount of time and effort Nick puts into Dawlish United, particularly when it comes to safeguarding. With over 350 youth players and two adult teams, the responsibility is significant.”

In his foreword to everyone, Devon County FA Chair John Street stated ‘My words cannot thank you enough for all the hard work & commitment you all do as volunteers to ensure that our great game continues to thrive, be that as coaches, referees, club officials, supporters and of course players – each and every one of you plays your part in this, as well as continually driving standards up.’

Host David Fitzgerald continued, “Nick is also known for mentoring newer coaches and club officials, sharing his knowledge and experience to help others understand the importance of safeguarding and how best to support young people in sport. He is approachable, respected, and deeply valued across the local football scene.”

Nick has been the sole Club Welfare Officer (CWO) at Dawlish for more than 20 years. With the club having now grown significantly, the girls and boys teams are numbering a total of 350 youth players.

On top of that, there are 55 DBS-approved managers and coaches, all of whom are parents who volunteer their time for free to keep children safe, off the streets & away from trouble.

Also, they’re letting them have fun and enjoy themselves, giving them adults to look up to and emulate, as well as providing a team environment and good role models.

Dawlish now provide football from under six years all the way up to adult, including walking football and veterans, with girls football in nearly every age group.

Nick is pictured receiving his award from Devon FA Designated Safeguarding Officer Lorraine Tilley.