We are delighted to announced that Lee Dennis has won our Coach of the Year (Male Pathway) as part of England Football’s Grassroots Football Awards.

This Award looks to highlight a coach in the male game who is inclusive, encouraging and inspiring when it matters most.

Lee is joint manager at Hastings Athletic Hawks Under-12s.

In December, Lee lost his son Harry in a car accident. Harry had been part of the team since it started four years ago. 

Since that tragic day Lee has not missed a game or training session.

He puts his heart and soul into the team and has shown such strength in helping the other members of the team try to get through the tough time.

Lee is loved by everyone at the club, not just the team. He is a true inspiration to everyone.

Even though Harry is now in heaven looking down on us all, Lee still goes out of his way to help players get to training and games.

His passion to help everyone is second to none. He’s been through so much recently but still finds the strength to make sure everyone can get where they need to be.

He goes above and beyond with the club, refs all the home games as well as other games when he can. He lines pitches and cuts and rolls the pitches when they need it.

Speaking on Lee, his fellow coach Scott Ramsey, said: “I honestly believe Lee deserves this accolade; I couldn’t do what we do without him

“After the accident I was thinking about pulling the team from our league, but it was Lee that said, we should carry on, and keep Harry’s legacy going. He gave me the strength to carry on!”

To find out more about the England Football Grassroots Awards please contact:

Awards
E: Awards@SussexFA.com