Fairness on and off the pitch at Grass Boots

Nothing beats the feeling of ending off a year filled with challenges on and off the field than finishing off on a high note.

For the Grass Boots Football Club it meant walking away with Cape Tygerberg Football Association Fair Play trophy in hand.

While some may consider it a consolation prize of sorts, Benjamin “Uncle Benny” Diamond believes it speaks volumes about the work they do with the youngsters that run out onto the pitch each week.

Established in 2009 by his son Stuart, Uncle Benny has been involved with the Vredehoek-based club from the get go, taking on various roles over the years.

“As general manager, I handle all registrations, fixtures, fields for matches, all general correspondence,” he said.

A football man to the bone, Uncle Benny has been involved with the game for 38 years, understanding the pressure, pain and pleasure concerning football matters.

Winning the Fair Play Award is dear to him and the rest of the Grass Boots family, which includes 12 junior and two senior sides with 200 registered players on their books.

“To the club it means that our policy of fairness in all spheres of club operation, has paid off for now and the future, this is the legacy as laid down by our club president.

Besides learning football skills, what is important is respect to fellow players, to your coaches and to senior personnel,” he said.