Congratulations to Charmaine Ridgers, for winning the community category at the Macron Sports Hub Hastings awards for 2023-2024, taking more than 50% of the votes. A mother of two sporty boys, Charmaine is the go-to person for admin and organisation for Rye Town FC and is also involved with Hastings United, particularly the youngsters' teams. A typical week for Charmaine involves admin for 45 football teams, attending on average six football matches and assisting on match days, pitch marking and maintenance, social media platform updates but most importantly in contact by phone or email for all the players, parents and coaches. No wonder people consider her to be a star.
Charmaine is someone everyone who has children in Rye knows and respects. She was amazed at receiving the award but her local friends, particularly in the world of sport, could think of no-one better to receive it. Emily Booth said: "Charmaine deserves it: she does a great deal for Hastings United and Rye FC but she does it because she enjoys it. To her the most important thing is for local people and children to have the opportunity to play football. We all love her as she cares so much."
Macron Sports Hub said: “We are delighted to announce that year's winner of the Macron Hastings Community Award has been won by Charmaine Ridgers of Rye Town FC and Hastings United. Charmaine won this award by quite a distance with multiple votes from people in Rye and Hastings.
“It is very clear to see from the comments and emails we had that Charmaine does an amazing job in her roles between the two clubs and is a very deserving winner of this year’s award. This will be an annual award, and we looking forward to bringing you the opening dates for 24/25."
Below are just some of the messages that Macron Sports Hub received during this year's campaign:
- Charmaine does so much. She is an admin machine.
- Charmaine is absolutely wonderful. She is a real credit to the football community. She goes above and beyond.
- She is always helpful and nothing appears to be too much for her. She is always positive, smiling and happy to help.
- Charmaine Ridgers: what she does is far and beyond what most can even think of doing and never has she expected any reward or thanks. She does everything so the community can play football and always has a welcoming smile on her face.
- This award is so richly deserved.
Certainly someone who is a wonderful role model for the next generation.
