THE NLFA UNSUNG HERO – DEREK VERNUM
A STUNNED Derek Vernum hadn't even had time to get stuck into his starter when he was called up to receive his prize at the National Game Awards.
And the emotion of winning The NLFA Unsung Hero honour in recognition of more than half a century of service to the Northamptonshire FA (NFA) was almost too much as he battled to keep tears at bay.
The pensioner knew he had been nominated by friend Nicholas Titman for the accolade, but didn't know that he had won – and therefore hadn't prepared a speech.
But he managed to charm the audience with his off-the-cuff remarks which highlighted his passion and enthusiasm for the game.
And the trophy was a perfect early birthday present as he turned 80 the day after the awards do on Wednesday.
He said: “I feel amazed, delighted and honoured. It's a national award and it was such a surprise. It's nice to feel wanted and appreciated – and that brings emotions.”
Vernum has had more roles in football than some people have had hot dinners. Among them, he managed the Peterborough United youth team, scouted for Arsenal and Norwich and served the NFA as a player, coach, administrator, scout, director and president.
Asked about his passion for football and the reasons why he has dedicated so much of his free time to the game, he explained: “What comes to mind is a Winston Churchill quote. He said, ‘If you love what you're doing, you haven't got a job'. I just love football.
“My dad, Jack, was a player and director of Peterborough United and I spent my whole life trying to be better than him, but it was impossible. He brought me up to love football.
“The friendship and camaraderie in football is special. My dad used to say that the friends you make in sport are your true friends.”
The NFA life vice-president also has a little claim to fame – he won at Barcelona! Back in 1970, Peterborough went on tour to Spain, but their matches were called off due to bad weather.
Barcelona manager Vic Buckingham told Posh director Vernum and colleague Billy Hails they could have a kickabout on the Nou Camp pitch – and Vernum beat Hails 2-1!
