CELEBRATING NATIONAL RECOGNITION IN ATHLETICS — A PROUD MOMENT FOR OUR COMMUNITY

National Recognition for Woodford Green AC — A Proud Moment for Our Club

I am incredibly proud to share some outstanding news for our club. This year, Woodford Green AC with Essex Ladies has been recognised on the biggest stage in England Athletics — and every athlete, parent, coach, and volunteer has played a part in this moment.

These awards aren’t just about performance. They celebrate the spirit, energy, and togetherness that make our club one of the strongest athletics communities in the country.

Woodford Green AC Named National Club of the Year 2025

At the England Athletics National Awards, Woodford Green AC received the prestigious title of National Club of the Year 2025. This follows our earlier honour as London Region Club of the Year, firmly establishing us as a national leader in athlete development, culture, and community impact.

This award recognises the club’s welcoming atmosphere, our dedicated volunteer team, and the relentless commitment shown by athletes of all ages. As a coach within this brilliant community, I see first-hand the energy, discipline, and effort that our young athletes bring to every session — and the incredible support behind them.

Success like this doesn’t happen by accident. It comes from consistency, teamwork, and a shared passion to help young people grow — on and off the track.

National Volunteer Awards 2025 — Celebrating the Heart of Our Club

England Athletics also revealed the winners of the National Volunteer Awards 2025, shining a spotlight on those who give their time to keep athletics thriving across the country.

Once again, Woodford Green AC was recognised as Club of the Year, highlighting the strength and depth of our volunteer base

Volunteers are the heartbeat of our sport — from coaching and officiating to organising competitions, managing teams, and supporting athletes week after week. Without them, nothing works. This award is a tribute to every single person who quietly steps up to make our club the supportive, inspiring environment it is.

What This Means for Our Future

• Higher Standards: National recognition raises the bar for coaching quality, club culture, and athlete development.
• A Stronger Pathway for Young Talent: Our athletes benefit from being part of a club known for excellence.
• More Volunteer Power: I hope this inspires more parents, supporters, and former athletes to get involved — every contribution strengthens the club.
• Forward Momentum: Awards don’t end the journey. They fuel our commitment to improve, innovate, and build the next generation of sprinters.

A Personal Thank You from Coach P Franklin

I want to personally thank everyone who makes this club what it is:

• My athletes — for their hard work, discipline, character, and trust.
• My son, Ethan Franklin — for his effort, passion, and the example he sets.
• Nina Franklin — my wife and an incredible support, who helps me coach and keeps everything moving behind the scenes.
• Our coaching team — including the brilliant Gladys Bird, Joe Everitt, Eubert Malcolm, Kenny King, Paul Cheal, Alan James and every coach who gives their time to develop the next generation.
• All parents and volunteers — your commitment, lifts, encouragement, and presence make a huge difference.

Being part of this award-winning club strengthens my purpose as a coach. I’m proud to work in an environment that values excellence, inclusivity, and genuine care for young people.

Here’s to building on this success, continuing to grow together, and helping every athlete reach their potential.

In strength and speed,
Coach P Franklin