After eight years, our church football team - Emmanuel Church FC - has folded. Over that time, the team has played in the North East Christian Fellowship League - twice winning promotion and once winning a cup.
A stunning 99 young men have played for the team in that time. Some have become Christians - all, we pray, have enjoyed fellowship.
To celebrate the club's achievements, a All Stars match was staged at Chester-le-Street Riverside on Saturday 20th May, with a Legends XI taking on a Current XI. Despite going in 1-0 down at half-time to a smart strike by Michael Hogg, the Legends came out 2-1 winners, with goals from Chris Kane and a last-gasp winner from Andrew Elliott.
Afterwards, an awards ceremony with buffet and speeches was held. In a fitting end, the All Time Club Man Award went to Ben Westerman - with everyone eligible to vote, except Ben himself, voting for him.
A huge thanks to Ben, Ryan Marklew and others who have run the club, Dave Blackett, Glenn Jones and Vic Bellas who have coached the team, all the players and everyone who has supported the club in any way.
Football at Emmanuel will continue: with anyone welcome to join a social kickabout at Chester-le-Street Riverside on Thursdays from 8pm to 9pm. For more information, see Ben, Ryan, Mike Elliot or Mark Tallentire. #bluearmyforever
