Foundation volunteer wins national award for volunteering work

The Torch Trophy Trust Awards, which were founded in 1962, recognise voluntary work for sport and outdoor activities throughout the UK.

Macenzie, a V99 Volunteer who has been with the Foundation since 2013, has given up over 200 hours of his time to work with young people on projects such as Premier League 4 Sport Table Tennis, Basketball and flagship community football programme Streets Reds.

The awards ceremony, held at the Army and Navy club in London, was attended by guests of honour, HRH The Countess of Wessex, and Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton. Macenzie, who is a lifelong Manchester United fan, got the chance to meet and talk with Sir Bobby about his volunteering work with the Foundation.

Sir Bobby, who is also president of the Torch Trophy Trust said “We have honoured these volunteers because of their incredible contribution to our great sporting nation and we are pleased to bring attention to their tireless work. “

When asked about the award, Macenzie was keen to stress the help of Foundation staff, he said “I wouldn't have won the award if it wasn't for all the amazing support I've received since joining the club as a college student. It means a lot, not just to me but to my family and I'm really grateful.”

On meeting Sir Bobby, Macenzie said “It was fantastic having a good talk with Sir Bobby Charlton and receiving such kind words from him. It’s been a real honour to represent the Foundation at such a prestigious event.”

Manchester United Foundation Volunteering coordinator, Martin Ingham, was keen to praise Macenzie for his attitude and approach to volunteering, he said “We’re very proud of Macenzie, he has a real love for sport and like many of our volunteers he’s working towards his coaching qualifications so that he is able to turn his efforts into a lifelong career in coaching”.