North Riding FA continued with its 2018 FA and McDonald’s Grassroots Football Award presentations on Wednesday (17 October), as it proudly handed Coach of the Year Kat Richardson, of Community Charter Standard Club York RI, her deserved award.

Kat is in equal measure Progressive, Inclusive and Determined. Not only does she coach her own girls’ team - which this year won the County Cup for the first time in the club’s history - she has also spearheaded the SSE Wildcats initiative alongside York City Foundation, which has grown from five young girls to 18 in a matter of weeks.

She continues to be a pivotal member of the club committee and the work she puts in behind the scenes to help the club achieve its goals is incredible. Kat is tireless in her passion to see football put first at York RI and in the city of York. At a recent club tournament, which had over 100 teams taking part from all over York and the surrounding areas, Kat was right in the middle ensuring the day ran smoothly for everyone.

Upon receiving her award, Kat said: “I love seeing kids develop – from learning to kick a ball and be part of a team, right up to winning the County Cup, as we did last year with the under-14 girls. I’ve got great support from all of the other coaches in the club; it’s a real team effort.

“This award means the world to me,” she continued.

“You do it for the love of it, but actually it’s really nice to get some recognition. To receive it from The FA is really special - so thank you!”

North Riding FA would like to thank Kat for her invaluable contribution to grassroots football and congratulate her on receiving this richly-deserved award.

Over the coming weeks, North Riding FA will be presenting awards to all of its 2018 winners. For further details, keep an eye on www.NorthRidingFA.com and connect with us on Facebook and Twitter.