A GLASGOW couple has netted a prestigious honour for their efforts in tackling mental health issues and loneliness in the city.
Aaron and Siobhan Connolly scored the Merit Award at the annual Scottish Football Association (SFA) and McDonald’s Grassroots Football Awards last week.
The kind-hearted duo earned plaudits for Time to Tackle, an initiative aimed at breaking down barriers, and their efforts to help others during the pandemic.
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Former Celtic player Kenny Dalglish said: “It’s been a really difficult year for the whole country, but I’m very pleased that we’re able to recognise and celebrate the volunteers who go above and beyond to have a positive impact on their local communities.
"The tireless work of local heroes like Aaron and Siobhan is what keeps the game going. They should be extremely proud of their achievements, and grassroots football in Scotland is in a much better place with them being a part of it.”
Time to Tackle was launched in October 2019 to help people suffering with poor mental health and loneliness.
Congratulations to @aconnolly91 and @siobhancon1, founders of @TimeToTackle – winners of the Merit Award in the 2020 Scottish FA Grassroots Awards, presented by McDonald's and the Sunday Mail.#GrassrootsAwards | @FunFootballUK | @SundayMailSport pic.twitter.com/fLYsAUuPDt
— Scottish FA (@ScottishFA) December 13, 2020
The couple ran recreational five-a-side football in Glasgow once a week, which included an hour of football and a mental health check-in, where the full group would go to a room and talk about their life.
During lockdown the scheme has been particularly important with Aaron - who plays for East End team St Roch's and has spoken openly about his own mental health issues - and Siobhan working tirelessly to support adults across their community.
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Local McDonald’s franchisee, Andy Gibson, who is an avid supporter of grassroots football in Glasgow, added: "I’ve been supporting grassroots football in Glasgow for many years and it’s brilliant for McDonald’s to continually champion the work of grassroots volunteers.
"It's an honour to recognise those who invest countless hours of time to deliver safe, fun football in Scotland, regardless of age, gender or disability.”
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