Old Headingley AFC were recently crowned The FA’s Charter Standard Adult Club of the Year for 2008 just one year on from facing extinction.
The Leeds club had less than a week to find a new home after being evicted from their ground and faced expulsion from the West Yorkshire League. With just one day to go, Bradford University offered them the use of their pitch and a much-needed lifeline.
Since then, the club haven’t looked back and they have also been awarded in excess of £8,000 from the Football Stadia Improvement Fund, which Old Headingley will put towards building new perimeter fencing to meet their league’s criteria.
Old Headingley Chairman, Chris Burns is delighted with the club’s turn in fortune.
"Who would have thought that only one year ago we were fearing for the future of Old Headingley?" he told the Yorkshire Evening Post.
"One year on, and I truly believe that we have finally got what we deserve. I am proud of every committee member and player. The lads are a shining example that hard work can pay off."
This hard work included establishing a ‘Save Old Headingley’ campaign, inviting over 500 teams to get behind their cause, which even drew support from Liverpool Chief Executive Rick Parry.
"We had lots of letters of support, made some fantastic contacts, but more importantly, our campaign was spotted by Bradford University," Chris added.
"Now we can concentrate on developing our club on the pitch, and involving more of the community. We now have a true home and a base to work from."
Paul Thorogood, chief executive of the Football Foundation and the Football Stadia Improvement Fund, said: "A vibrant community team is vital for the future of football. I pay a particular tribute to the hard work and dedication by all at the club for making this funding a reality."
