The board of Tonbridge Angels have selected Club Secretary, Phill Allcorn as their recipient of this season’s Austin Verini Award.
The Austin Verini Shield, awarded to the club person of the year, is one of the most prestigious awards presented by the club.
The award was inaugurated by the Supporters Association in 1992 when Steve Clark was the first winner. The Association ruled that no one person can win the award twice, although there have been a couple of exceptions, and Phill takes his place among many illustrious recipients.
Austin Verini was the club’s treasurer for over 30 years beginning his tenure in 1951. When the club was formed in 1948 he was appointed the Assistant Secretary but three years later became Secretary and Treasurer. At times he acted as Trainer (Physio in today’s terms), accompanying the Metropolitan League side in that capacity.
Chair Sophie Purves, who presented the award in the Piano Bar at Gillingham’s Priestfield Stadium on Wednesday, said of this year’s recipient: “Phill is a vital member of the team at Tonbridge Angels. He works tirelessly to make sure the club’s football administration is all in order. He is one of the club’s unsung heroes and is fully deserving of this prestigious award. Phill is diligent, professional and precise in all he does as Club Secretary. We are very lucky to have him as one of our key volunteers.”
Phill, who is about to complete his second season as club secretary added: “I was rather surprised and caught off guard when Sophie presented this award to me on Wednesday evening – I wasn’t just posing for a photo with the trophy after all(!)
“I am rather old school and see hard work as those who have to physically graft, which I see around the ground on a day to day basis – no wonder so many tea breaks and biscuits are required! Therefore, it doesn’t feel quite right that I have been given this award for just sending a few emails and taking phone calls each day.
“I am fully aware of the past names who have won this award and so feel very honoured to have mine added to the impressive list.
“A huge thank you to the club directors, Dunney and his team, the fans, all other volunteers and the players who keep this great club running.
“I would strongly encourage others to see this as motivation to come on board and join the team to be part of something special.”
