Without the ‘Invisible Red Army’ we would not be able to provide you with your fan match experience.

Volunteering is strongly established in Britain as the country continues to have one of the highest rates in the world and remains a key element to promote social participation and active citizenship, especially among young people. A recent survey shows that in 2018/19, nearly 19 million people (36%) volunteered with a group, club or organisation at least once in the year and over 11.9 million (22%) volunteered regularly (at least once a month). 52% people also took part in informal volunteering (unpaid help to someone who is not a relative) activities at least once in the year and 26% volunteered regularly. One of the key aspects to volunteering is that the activity should benefit someone other than the volunteer, while recognising that they, too, may gain significant benefit. It may be difficult to understand why volunteers want to participate in a midweek February League game.

However, the act of volunteering can provide significant tangible benefits which have been referred to as a “helper’s high”. These can include better physical, mental health and wellbeing together with increased confidence, acquisition of new skills and valuable work experience. A sense of connection to others in the community. Football clubs are at the heart of our local communities. They have a unique social value and many, including Kettering Town FC, possess great history and legacy which cannot be continued without the emotional and physical contribution from our volunteers. At KTFC we want to ensure that our volunteers  get as much out of volunteering as they put into it. That’s why we work hard to match their aims, goals, aspirations, personality, available time and everything else with opportunities at the club. Time is a precious commodity. The act of giving their time to run the club is one that we celebrate and encourage others to engage in. So next time you meet one of our volunteers please thank them for their valuable contribution as their activities span the ground maintenance, media, bar work, ticket selling, kit management,  cleaning and administration and more.  They are our unsung heroes. As without them we would not have a football club  and if you get a chance on matchday, please do praise the volunteer as they devote their time and energy as an individual to allow us as fans to collectively experience the highs and lows of the beautiful game.