Evan Dunn is the first player to go right through Llanyrafon AFC’s junior structure and complete the pathway into the senior men’s team.
Cllr Anthony Hunt, leader of Torfaen Council, presented the 17-year-old with the Terry Eaton Award.
A spokesman for Llanyrafon AFC said the shield was given to players who had completed over ten years playing for the mini and junior teams at the club: “This is in the spirit of Terry who dedicated 30 years of his life to football in Torfaen.
“Terry first became involved with Llanyrafon AFC in 1982 when his eldest son started playing for the under 12’s. He initially helped running the side and in the years that followed, joined the committee and eventually became club secretary.
“Terry was very proud that over the years he and many other volunteers helped thousands of kids get a game of football every weekend, as this was something he did not have when he was growing up. Terry always thought it important that youngsters had an opportunity to enjoy themselves with their friends and be able to flourish.”
Cllr Hunt said: “Evan, well done. I know that link is something that we have found too as the players go into the older age groups we don’t want them to just drop out. You want them to have that pathway through to senior teams. We want to keep you guys having fun, playing as a team and learning all the things you get from that too. So thank you for all your efforts.”