Gainsborough's FA Cup magic highlights the power of community and volunteering

Trinity advanced from the first round proper in dramatic fashion, coming back from 3-0 down to take Hednesford Town to extra time before eventually edging a nail-biting penalty shoot-out via the odd kick in 18.

Page, 43, is the club’s stadium announcer and has been a regular at The Northolme since 2000.

He feels Trinity’s extraordinary victory, and the prospect of a glamour third round tie, shows why getting involved at your local club can be so rewarding.

“It was the most extraordinary game I've ever seen,” said Page, reflecting on the heist at Hednesford.

“We've got through to the second round for the first time in 72 years and we’ve started to dream about the third round now, so it's an amazing experience which means so much to a lot of people.

“The club runs on volunteers. I don't live locally anymore but I've always done it and come back because I enjoy it and because you want to be part of it.

“These sorts of days come around so infrequently and make it all worthwhile.

“Football, particularly non-league football, conjures up emotions like nothing else. I was there with my dad, who doesn’t go to a lot of away games, and it was a really special moment for us being there in and amongst the rest of the supporters. It brings families together.”

Dad-of-two Page is one of countless volunteers who play important roles at non-league clubs throughout the country, with opportunities to get involved now available through the Pitching In Volunteer Hub.

Through entering their postcode, individuals can locate volunteering opportunities at nearby clubs and discover more details which roles are available.

“There is such a great sense of community,” said Page, who is now based in Scarborough. “It takes me home to where I'm from and it's about a sense of belonging and knowing your town and your community and supporting that.

“I've moved away, but I've always come back and I've used it as an opportunity to be a part of something in my hometown and be part of that with family members and relatives.

“I'd recommend it to anybody for personal development and giving you a sense of doing something.”

Looking ahead to the next chapter in their memorable FA Cup run, Trinity will travel to League Two Harrogate in front of the BBC Two cameras on Friday 29 November, with £75,000 awaiting the winners.
Trinity haven’t reached the third-round stage since 1886 but Page and co are refusing to let history stop them from dreaming.

“You can't help but think about that because as football supporters we’re dreamers. We're a club that likes to think that we can achieve anything,” he added.

“To think that we could potentially get Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea or Arsenal would be hugely important for us financially and what a great reward it would be to the supporters and volunteers for their loyalty through all the ups and downs over the years.”
Find volunteering opportunities at your local club by visiting: pitchinginvolunteers.co.uk