Rosey recognised- for more than half a century of loyal service

If anyone deserved the title of 'Mr Whitehawk,' it would be volunteer- and Club Secretary- John Rosenblatt, and on Saturday the club hosted a special ceremony to show him just how much he was appreciated. Those present included Barbara Slater, Head of BBC Sport, and Nick Robinson, Chair of the Isthmian League, and veteran former Hawks from the last half a century- and John even saw a bar renamed in his honour.

Hawks Chair Andy Schofield explained:

"Non-league clubs like ours couldn’t survive without people like Rosey. He began with a donkey derby in 1971 and he’s still here doing the laundry and opening up six days a week. His commitment is incredible- and greatly appreciated by all at the club."

The reference to the Donkey Derby can be explained by the programme cover you can see here. Apparently two of the donkey's escaped- and yes, you can insert your own joke here!

Hawks head of Commercial Kevin Miller added:

“Saturday was an incredible day. As well as a presentation from Isthmian League Limited Chairman Nick Robinson to John Rosenblatt for fifty three years of dedicated service, we raised funds for Non League Day's charity Prostate Cancer UK, and paid an emotional tribute to Conor Saunders - son of Whitehawk Manager Shaun - who was tragically killed 11 years ago aged just 19. Saturday would have been his 30th birthday, and the fans posted a moving tribute to him by making a banner with his shirt number emblazoned upon it. Three points was just the icing on a wonderful cake."

Isthmian Chair Nick Robinson, pictured making the presentation to John, has the final word.

"People like John are the lifeblood of our game. I was delighted to be asked to make a presentation to him, and delighted to have the opportunity to thank him for his incredible efforts for his club."

Images courtesy of the club.