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Teenager Archie Suter of Faversham Strike Force presented with national award at Wembley by England manager Gareth Southgate

05:00, 20 August 2023

updated: 07:40, 20 August 2023

England manager Gareth Southgate has presented a youngster with a national award for his selfless volunteering in youth football.

Faversham Strike Force’s Archie Suter was named Young Volunteer of the Year at The FA’s National Grassroots awards, adding to the same honour he received from The Kent FA for his work with the club.

Faversham Strike Force's Archie Suter, winner of Young Volunteer of the Year, is presented with his award at Wembley by England boss Gareth Southgate. Picture: Henry Browne, The FA/Getty Images
Faversham Strike Force's Archie Suter, winner of Young Volunteer of the Year, is presented with his award at Wembley by England boss Gareth Southgate. Picture: Henry Browne, The FA/Getty Images

He was handed his trophy by the national team boss at Wembley and enjoyed a dream day out at the Community Shield this month.

Not only did he get to meet World Cup-winner Geoff Hurst and Liverpool legend John Barnes, Suter also got a taste of his dream job by shadowing The FA’s social media team as they filmed pre-match interviews and warm-ups on the pitch.

“Meeting Gareth Southgate was unbelievable,” he said.

“We joked before about how amazing it would be if the England manager presented my award - and then it happened!

“I got to meet all the Manchester City and Arsenal players as they arrived including my hero, Jack Grealish.”

Teenager Archie Suter at Wembley during The FA Community Shield match between Manchester City and Arsenal. Photo: Michael Regan - The FA/The FA via Getty Images
Teenager Archie Suter at Wembley during The FA Community Shield match between Manchester City and Arsenal. Photo: Michael Regan - The FA/The FA via Getty Images

Suter, 13, dedicates hours each week to Strike Force and fulfils multiple roles, including being coach, stadium announcer and social media content creator. He also plays for the under-14s.

He has played a major part in the club’s new Mini Bolts sessions for children with special educational needs and disabilities.

Suter, who is dyslexic, is a favourite with children and parents alike who have praised the way he deals with young footballers with diverse needs.

“Arch is often the first one to arrive at sessions and shows huge maturity and communication skills,” said club first-team manager Gary Axford. “He’s an absolute credit to the club and the town.

“What makes him stand out is his willingness to take on new challenges.

“He never says ‘no’ to the club or anyone asking for help.”

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