Thursday September 5th 2024
Last Friday Bonnyrigg Rose Community Football Club welcomed volunteers, sponsors, supporters, and community members to a special event at Poltonhall. This gathering was a chance for the community club to express a proper, heartfelt “Thank you” to everyone who has supported the club.
The club recently took ownership of the site in Poltonhall, following a successful asset transfer application from the Council. The acquisition of the site represents a major step forward for the club, offering new opportunities to develop and enhance community activities
The atmosphere was one of joy as dozens of guests arrived to show their continuous appreciation for the club’s dedication and hard work. Among the guests were police officers, football coaches, Tony Crolla, the owner of the Cavaliere restaurant in Dalkeith (who generously supplied the club’s pantry), the volunteers themselves, and many more.
A highlight of the event was a series of speeches from club officials, who expressed appreciation for every individual who has supported them over the years.
“For me, this football club, now a community club that Trish has built, the kids are at the forefront. I keep saying to everybody, this club belongs to the kids. The kids are the community. It’s legacy we’re trying to build here for the kids, so that in the future maybe the same kids will come along when they’re my age and they’ve got their wee grandkids and they’re playing football. That’s what we’re trying to achieve” said Jim Wilson, General Manager of the club.
Jim paused to personally thank the girls who secured first place in the Youth and Philanthropy Initiative (YPI). Their victory brought a much-needed £3,000 award and attention to the club. Each girl was presented with an envelope bearing their name, along with flowers, and was met with resounding applause from the entire audience.
Following that, Jim gave a heartfelt shoutout to another vital member of the community club — Trish Sime, the Development Manager, whose contributions have shaped the club in countless ways. To say she was caught off guard would be an understatement. Hidden behind a door nearby, she was visibly moved when her name was called. She emerged teary-eyed to receive flowers and a well-deserved round of applause from the crowd. She thanked everyone for their support over the years. She also spoke about the importance of keeping the community club afloat and how it has impacted the lives of many.
The event was a vibrant celebration of community spirit and dedication, bringing together the unsung heroes who have tirelessly supported the organization. The atmosphere was one of gratitude and camaraderie, as volunteers and staff alike reflected on their collective achievements and the positive impact they have made. From my perspective, this gathering was more than just a thank-you; it was a time to reflect on the lasting legacy being created at Poltonhall. As a volunteer myself, even if only on a few occasions, I feel incredibly proud and grateful to have played a small part in what this club does for the community. The event stirred up deep emotions as I thought about all the impactful work the club has done for the people I’ve met during my volunteering. However, it also made me feel a bit sad, knowing that these efforts deserve far more recognition than they receive.
While children played on the nearby football fields and laughter echoed through lively conversations, it became evident that the Bonnyrigg Rose Community Football Club is much more than a mere club. It serves as a hub where relationships flourish, connections are forged, support is provided, skills are developed, and lasting memories are created for years to come.
This event was a success, reflecting on the bonds that unite Bonnyrigg Rose Community Football Club and the community. The journey of the Bonnyrigg Rose Community Football Club is just beginning, and they eagerly anticipate welcoming new community members and volunteers, as well as reuniting with everyone for many more celebrations in the years ahead.
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