TELL YOUR STORY
I can remember 'volunteering my services as a referee when I first heard about the Neighbourhood Football in 1977. I qualified as a referee in 1974 and I felt that I needed to be part of a new era in Seaham as I am a "Colliery Lad".
I refereed the first cup final, 'The Ron Armstrong Trophy' at the Green Drive, Dawdon and my two "linesmen" were Ken Younger and Harry Anderson. The "Legend" Gary Rowell presented the trophies. My mother has a photograph somewhere of Gary presenting me with my memento, I will certainly be hunting for it as for any other relevant photographs. I went on to officiate for a great number of years and I would think that I was the most active qualified referee within the Neighbourhood Football scheme. It was sad that as the Neighbourhood Football scheme did not wish to 'register' with the County Football Association I had to withdraw my services.
However I have very fond memories of the tournament and would think that the idea of some form of reunion evening would be a good
fund-raiser.
Here's Hoping.
Malcolm Langley
(Durham Football Association and Wearside League Referee
Assessor &
Registered Football Referee Assessor with ' The
Football Association')
NOTE: "The Neighbourhood" decided
against registering with the County Football Association because it would
have prevented girls and boys (under 11 years old) from playing together.
Jody Burnip
I played for Dawdon Tigers under Paul Chisholm. Myself and my best friend joined at the same time. When I joined only 1 girl was playing. Then I came which made two girls playing. I remember winning a cup up at the Red Star, we beat Ropery Walk. I was chuffed cos I had scored two in that match. I also remember playing against Princess Park and it was toward the end of the game when one of our players got hit full force in his "Privates". I remember his face as he fell to the ground. I have some brilliant memorys playing for Dawdon I hope other kids have memorys like I have.
