Goalscorer trophy is perfect tribute to David

WHEATSHEAF have donated a new trophy to the West Susssex League in memory of a former player who died last year.
John Wickenden, left, Darren Holden, and Matthew Parkes with the memorial trophy for their friend David Knowles Picture by Kate Shemilt C140755-2John Wickenden, left, Darren Holden, and Matthew Parkes with the memorial trophy for their friend David Knowles Picture by Kate Shemilt C140755-2
John Wickenden, left, Darren Holden, and Matthew Parkes with the memorial trophy for their friend David Knowles Picture by Kate Shemilt C140755-2

The David Knowles Trophy, for the league’s division-four top goalcorer, was handed over to the league and was presented for the first time at their annual meeting.

The inaugural winner was Henry Lilley of Southwater Reserves. Wheatsheaf officials were on hand to present the trophy.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Wheatsheaf’s Matt Parker said: “It feels absolutely fitting that a top goalscorer trophy is now dedicated in his name for eternity.

“The funds for the trophy were raised by David’s family and friends and the Wheatsheaf – the team David was playing for at the time of his death – were entrusted to find something suitable and lasting to do with the monies raised.

“The WSFL agreed to our request and so the trophy was donated to be awarded each year to the top goalscorer in division four.

“It also seems very fitting that this is the division that we will be playing in next season and therefore this should provide extra motivation for us.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Wheatsheaf have been renamed The Unicorn BRFC for 2014-15 season as they have moved pubs.

David played in West Sussex football for more than 20 years and as far back as the 1994-95 season, he won the division-five top scorer award (the Patrick Israel Trophy) while playing for Aldingbourne. He won the trophy again in the 2005-06 while with The Wheatsheaf.

Other teams he played for include Newtown Villa, The Ship and The Sunday Rocks. He was top scorer on many occasions and was a player that others looked up to and greatly enjoyed playing alongside.

The David Knowles Celebration Football Match is scheduled for Sunday, August 24, at Pagham FC. It is between the DK Old Boys and Mel Davies’ Villans. Mel is a big Aston Villa Fan and former manager of Newtown Villa.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The DK Old boys will be a mixture of the most recent team to play with David and some of his friends, family and old team-mates.

The Villans will also feature family, friends and team-mates from David’s playing days at Newtown Villa.

It will raise funds for the Kent, Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance Trust and the Sussex Snowdrop Trust – both chosen by David’s family.

Admission on the day is free, and the players will each make a donation for the privilege of being involved.

There will be a collection and raffle on the day.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

It kicks off at 3pm but the gates and bar will be open earlier. Afterwards there will be musical entertainment. All are welcome.

If anybody wishes to play they should contact Darren Holden on 07862 296942 or Mel Davies at Newtown Social Club. Alternatively, go to www.facebook.com/events/1436505066608382/