Saturday was a day for celebration off the pitch as Volunteers’ Away Day took centre stage, with the Club paying tribute to those who give up their free time to help us on and off the field.
Funded by Cherry Red Records and held at the Cromwell Hotel in Stevenage, our volunteers were treated to a two course meal before hearing speeches from the likes of Club Chair Mick Buckley, Iain McNay and Ivor Heller.
Whilst there was also a chance to get some insight into first-team matters, with Alex Pearce and Harry Pell partaking in a Q&A.
Here you can enjoy our exclusive gallery of the day and read some quotes from some of our loyal volunteers.
Howard Fry said: “I’ve been a car park steward from almost day one. I was a steward for the match against Chipstead all the way through to the last match at Kingsmeadow against Bolton Wanderers. I’ve continued the role since we moved back to Plough Lane.
“I have so many good memories of volunteering. It’s great to look after our fans and make sure they enjoy their experience.”
Shannon Breytenbach said: “I enjoy helping out because we’re like a small family. I like to make their day extra special when they come in the shop. Making people smile is an amazing feeling. Christmas time is my favourite because you get so many kids coming in the shop.”
Robert Jeffery said: “It’s a good feeling to use your talents to give back to the club. We’re all fans of the club and I think that shows in the quality of our work. I enjoy the insights that I get through volunteering. I’ve really enjoyed today, it’s a lovely gesture from the club.”
Mark Brewer said: “I help with a lot of the midweek jobs at the stadium. I was part of the team which helped to disassemble Kingsmeadow when we left. A lot of stuff that WiSH have in the museum was also salvaged by us. The work weekends are what first got me involved.”
Maria Potter said: “I love the community feel of our club. I’ve made a lot of friends through doing the volunteering. It makes you feel like you’re part of something.”
Manda Bell said: “I’m now retired, so I decided to become a volunteer for Wimbledon as a programme seller. It’s one of the best things I’ve ever done. I love meeting new people. I’m on the away section – I enjoy engaging with visiting fans when they arrive. I get a lot of joy from seeing people enjoy themselves.
“I love seeing people pour into Plough Lane. The look of excitement on their faces makes your day. You can see the passion that they have for football. It really is the beautiful game.”
PICS: Dennis Goodwin (Pro Sports Images)