Perth football coach receives 2023 SFA and McDonald’s Grassroots Football Award for 'amazing dedication'

An inspirational figure in the local community has been recognised for her “amazing dedication” to grassroots football.

Yolanda Gill, a coach with Fair City Junior FC, was presented with the prestigious Best Volunteer in Girls’/Women’s Football at the 2023 SFA and McDonald’s Grassroots Football Awards.

The ceremony was held on October 31 and Yolanda received her trophy from Scotland international stars James McFadden and Jen Beattie.

The awards recognise and celebrate the incredible volunteers who dedicate countless hours to inspire those in the grassroots football community.

They are now in their 11th year and Yolanda joins a long list of inspirational grassroots football heroes who have been recognised by the programme.

Yolanda - in a remarkable journey of resilience - defied the odds to become a pivotal figure for the football community at Fair City FC.

Struggling with epilepsy and other major health conditions, she initially believed her coaching and volunteering days were behind her.

But five years ago a group of visionaries convinced her otherwise and now she is not just a coach but a symbol of unwavering determination.

All at the Perth club - and beyond - see Yolanda as an ambassador for inclusive football.

And her commitment to supporting girls with additional support needs (ASN) was described as “exemplary”, with every
child under her guidance feeling valued.

Yolanda’s qualifications extend beyond the pitch and, while holding a C licence, she is also trained in mental health first aid - enabling her to support parents and children with ADHD and Autism.

A Fair City spokesperson had said: “Yolanda embodies the belief that no one should be denied the chance to play and her impact on our club is immeasurable.”

Scottish FA