York City superfan wins league award

In football speak, York City supporter Bradley Saxton gives 110% to his team.

And that commitment has earned him the award for ‘Vanarama Volunteer of the Month’ in National League North.

Bradley, 19, was nominated by club press officer Ian Appleyard for his involvement in the ‘Question of City Sport’ evening which raised money for both the club academy and foundation.

He is also a volunteer worker in the club shop, serves on the Stadium Working Group, and was previously a member of City’s Youth Council.

Hours of work

“I have grown up as a York supporter and I have been been a season ticket holder since 2006,” he said. “I like to help the club attract younger supporters and develop in the community.

“Events like the ‘Question of City Sport’ can only help improve those areas going forward. It took a lot of time to get things prepared but I wrote down how it should be organised and the different things we needed to do such as the videos.

“Overall, the night went really well. Jon Parkin was a good laugh and very useful as host – although I still had to help him out a little bit – and, hopefully, if we do it again next year, we can make it even better and attract even more supporters.”

Praising Bradley’s contribution to the club, Ian Appleyard said: “Bradley is a proud City fan who is always willing to help the club wherever possible. He volunteers in the club shop, helped us distribute season tickets this summer, and helped out at the club’s Open Day as ‘Yorkie the Lion’.

“This month, however, he has excelled himself with his contribution to the ‘Question of City Sport’ night. He came up with the idea, drafted all the questions, and prepared and edited the footage including ‘Mystery Guests’ and ‘What Happened Next?’

“He spent many hours getting things prepared in advance and he also looked after the scoring and equipment on the night. I think his efforts truly deserve this month’s award.”

Bradley, who lives in Clifton, previously attended Tadcaster Grammar School and now works as a cook for the army at Fulford Barracks.

The National League launched the Vanarama Volunteer of the Month award eight months ago.

In partnership with The Fan Experience Company, three monthly winners are chosen from each of the three divisions to recognise unsung heroes across the 68 clubs in The National League.