Worcestershire FA is pleased to announce that John Roskelly has been appointed to serve as our Vice-Chair.

John becomes the seventh member of our Board of Directors and is well placed to support our ongoing efforts to enhance local football through his considerable experience as a Council Member, active match official and one of our Mental Health Champions.

Previously, John had a 40 year military career and achieved ranks from Private Soldier through to Lieutenant Colonel. Having served worldwide, his stints abroad included living in Germany for 15 years and Cyprus for 2 years, whilst also having been based at a variety of locations across the United Kingdom.

John brings to the Board a vast amount of experience in leadership and logistical roles across a number of sectors. He is also well-versed in the challenges and opportunities available within grassroots football, continuing to be an active match official alongside a number of voluntary roles. John continues to give back to the next generation, now coaching, observing and mentoring match officials in addition to acting as a Mental Health Champion.

Following his appointment, John said: “I am absolutely thrilled and excited to become the new Vice Chair of the WFA, especially as they have recently issued their impact report following the conclusion of the 23/24 season which was hugely successful. With the publication of their new strategy for 2024/28, I hope I can use my work/life and football background to help in driving their visions forward. They have a very experienced Board of Directors, a dynamic and forward thinking workforce and a large volunteer base who I hope to work with and contribute across many areas in the months to come. I feel honoured to be part of this diverse association.”

Our Chair, Richard Bate, said: “It’s with great pleasure that I welcome John onto the WFA Board of Directors as our newly elected Vice-Chair. John brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience from within football and his previous professional career. I am sure John will contribute greatly and be a perfect fit alongside our current pro-active & forward-thinking Board Members.”

Speaking on John’s appointment, our Chief Operating Officer, Ollie Williams added: “My congratulations to John on his appointment to the position of Vice-Chair, one I know he will undertake with the same level of due diligence and commitment that he has shown in a number of roles in Worcestershire football over a number of years. He is well-known across Worcestershire and to our team of staff who are looking forward to working with him moving forward.”

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