Women’s FA Cup recognition a fitting tribute to AFC Fylde volunteer Tom

AFC Fylde have paid tribute to club volunteer Tom Elliott after he was featured as part of a campaign celebrating those who make a difference in women’s football.

The Adobe Women’s FA Cup initiative was created to highlight people who perhaps fail to get the credit they deserve for their efforts.

In Elliott’s case, he has worked behind the scenes in keeping Kellamergh Park up to standard in addition to helping out with various jobs for the women’s team.

He took part in a photoshoot at Wembley before subsequently being invited to the Women’s FA Cup final between Manchester City and Brighton and Hove Albion.

Danny Murphy, AFC Fylde’s head of women’s football, told the club website: “We were all absolutely delighted when Tom was selected for the campaign.

“We received an email asking if there was anyone we would like to nominate, whether it be a player, a member of staff, but we felt Tom was the perfect person.

“It goes very much unnoticed the work Tom, and all the volunteers, do for the women’s side but without them, we wouldn't have had anywhere near the success we had last year.

“Whilst I know the photoshoot would’ve been very out of his comfort zone, I’m made up to see Tom receive such recognition because he really is a special part of the team and we value him more than he’ll ever know.

“We told him just before kick off at the final women’s game of the season, and whilst there were mixed emotions about making a fuss, you could see how much the recognition and this season generally has meant to him.

“Being a part of winning trophies with the women’s side has meant a lot to him and I’m just glad we are able to show our appreciation for everything he does.”