This past Sunday saw a celebration of our national award. Yes, that’s right, Wimbledon In Sporting History is now recognised nationally, and you can read more about this huge achievement here… At the same time, we also were able to remember two legends of WiSH and what they brought to us – the Mick Pugh Challenge Cup was once again contested, and the Dennis Lowndes award was presented.
Details of the thrilling Cup match, and more can be found below, but to round off a super awards ceremony, which was helped along by talks from Mick Buckley, Craig Cope, as well as the various team leaders within WiSH, the Dennis Lowndes Trophy was presented to this year’s Volunteer of the Year Sharon Armfield. The work that all the volunteer group have done over the year was recognised and appreciated, but the decision to award Sharon was unanimous.
Onto the pitch then, and both caged astro and hallowed turf were used, as Chris Hutchinson reports (as well as being a participant)
“The Mick Pugh Challenge Cup saw a thrilling 5-5 draw, which WOPA won on penalties. Following this, the teams combined to enter a WiSH / WOPA team in a walking football tournament. This took place on the main pitch, fulfilling many of the squad’s dreams!
A ’round robin’ saw two AFC Wimbledon walking football teams compete with the newly established WiSH / WOPA team. Teams played each other twice, with a resulting final.
I’m pleased to say that the WiSH / WOPA squad quickly gelled together. They enjoyed many laughs, stayed professional(ish) and went on to dominate the tournament.
WiSH / WOPA remained unbeaten and were proud winners of a well-contested and enjoyable tournament.
Many thanks to all players and the Foundation for an enjoyable event.”
Some of those players involved were former Dons, including Keith Ward, Andy Sullivan, and Ray Merry. Their kind words of appreciation were sent over to WOPA lead, Ray Armfield, who incidentally was referee of the WOPA team that won against WiSH and now boasts a 2-0 record in his managerial career (watch out Johnnie Jackson).
If you would like to volunteer some time for WiSH (and perhaps rub shoulders with former players in future games) then please get in touch with us at info@wimbledoninsportinghistory.com