Wallasey Golf Club’s Abi Frodsham picked up the England Golf Volunteer of the Year award for 2024 at Tuesday’s England Golf Centenary Dinner & Awards at The Midland Manchester Hotel.
Abi has delivered golf in nine schools to over 500 children, and as acting Junior Organiser at Wallasey, she marketed and delivered the Girls Golf Rocks programme and follow-on sessions.
At Leasowe, Abi supported community sessions for children from disadvantaged backgrounds and has volunteered with Liverpool Football Club Foundation at LJMU Game On girls’ campaign, inspiring young girls in Liverpool into sport.
She was presented the Hero’s Handshake Award, presented by the Golf Foundation and England Golf Young Ambassadors, recognising her incredible volunteering activities.
She has also developed lots of creative and innovative social media content helping promote a variety of local programmes.
After picking up her award, she said: “My heart was beating a lot! It was a really nice surprise and I was a bit nervous walking up in front of all those people but it was cool, it means a lot.
“It drives me to want to do even more and it’s nice to be recognised but it’s not for the recognition that we do it, it’s for the other people that we’re supporting and helping along the way.
“The most rewarding aspect is seeing the smiles, when they walk in and the difference on their faces afterwards, it speaks a thousand words. You don’t even need to ask them but the way their face looks on the way out – it’s two different people. They’re just so excited to come back and do more.
“I aim to keep supporting other people, in particular juniors and young girls especially to get into the game and to enjoy the experiences which I’ve been able to, that I nearly didn’t have. I’m thankful to give that opportunity to so many more young people and adults too.”
Also up for the award was another lady from Cheshire Melissa Clapham from Romiley Golf Club who was delighted to be nominated for the award for her dedicated work at her own club.
Pictured above, Abi, Steve Doughty and Melissa
Copy & images: Geoff Garnett
