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Next up at the laithwaite community stadiumwoking v AFC Fylde12:15pm - Saturday 20th April 2024purchase tickets & hospitality
The Geoff Chapple Lounge was packed recently for a lunch to mark the retirement of Jane Booth (Spong) as head of Cardinals in the Community.
Representatives from Surrey FA, the Isthmian League and Suburban Leagues joined the President of the National League, Brian Lee MBE, and the Mayor of Woking. Alongside were friends, family, the CITC team and Club representatives. Woking legend and three-time FA Trophy winner Darren Hay came along to say thank you.
It is no exaggeration to say that Jane pioneered community engagement in non-league football. Sue O’Brien, the project manager of the National League Trust, commented that when the Trust was set up Woking were really the only club (other than ex League clubs) to have a community scheme. Not only did Jane set the bar for others but she actively advised and helped anyone else to get started.
Many staff commented on how Jane had helped them through personal challenges to grow in confidence and find a way forward. The work of CITC with those struggling with their mental health was mentioned repeatedly.
During her seventeen years at the helm, Woking FC in the Community received many awards, including:
• 2012 - National League South Community Club of the Year
• 2013 - National League Premier Community Club of the Year
• 2013 - BBC Community Heroes for Work with Mental Health
• 2014 - Football Foundation Community Club of the Year
• 2015 - National League Community Club of the Year
• 2016 - National League Best Programme for those with Disabilities.
• 2017 - National League Best Schools Project (Maths of the Day)
Jane also personally received the Trotman Trophy for Services to Sport in Woking in 2014.
Having seen the transition of Woking Football Club in the Community into a new charity, Cardinals in the Community, Jane has decided the time is right and leave the work in the hands of a very capable team. Jane, however, is not disappearing and will become a Trustee with the charity in the New Year.
On behalf of all at Woking Football Club, thank you Jane!
Woking Football Club Limited
A company incorporated in England and Wales (company number: 03329172)
Registered office The Laithwaite Community Stadium, Kingfield, Woking, Surrey, GU22 9AA
