The Halifax Town A.F.C. Centre of Excellence Annual Awards Presentation evening was held at the Cedar Court Hotel, Ainley Top, Huddersfield on Saturday 5th April 2008 for the second year running.

The event attended by nearly 300 players, guests and VIP's started with pre dinner drinks.Once the guests were seated, the players from the Youth Team right down to the U9's squad entered the banqueting area to the voices of a 40 strong female choir.The parents and the Centre of Excellence staff took photographs of the squads stood in front of the choir and the Halifax Town A.F.C. Centre of Excellence backdrop.

Speeches and presentations to staff and players for all their hard work over the last season took place on a raised stage, with every player receiving a boxed medallion from both Des Hazel and VIP guest Wayne Allison.

Guest speakers included Wayne Allison, Brian Close, Des Hazel, and VIP's in attendance included Jack Haymer, David Brown (Bradford City F.C. player), Bob Bland, our very own Kelly Gilchrist and husband, Martin Bishop, Andy Pinfield, Lee Ashcroft from the CFI and others.

This was all then topped by a lovely three course meal, along with coffee and mints to finish.Whilst the final course was being served, a table magician was undertaking some fantastic close up tricks, which had our guests in awe.

Stand up bingo, a raffle and an auction of signed football memorabilia took place to raise funds for the Centre of Excellence.The prizes included a brand new boxed 21 inch combination TV, DVD and Video, signed Huddersfield Town football, two signed Bradford City Balls, Leeds Rhino Tickets, signed Burnley Shirt to name but a very few.Our thanks goes out to every one who had donated these prizes - it is very much appreciated.

Sponsors and Centre of Excellence Staff Partners were asked to join myself, Brian Close and Nick Fletcher on stage, to receive a bottle of Champaign for their support over the previous twelve months.

VIP's were also ushered onto the stage to receive Champaign and flowers as a thank you for their attendance of the evening.

A series of photographs were taken of all the VIP's and speakers, which will be on line very shortly.

The event later closed with a disco.

It was a real momentous evening, which was enjoyed by all.

On a finishing note, I would like to thank all who attended, making it a complete pleasure for the 120 Youth Centre of Excellence players, parents and guardians alike.

Ian Noden

Player Welfare Officer.

Halifax Town A.F.C. Centre of Excellence