Munnings, a qualified teacher who is a member of the North East Hants School Sports Partnership (NEHSSP), works at both The Connaught School in Aldershot and Wavell School in Farnborough.
His role is to increase Aldershot Town’s engagement with local schools, and encourage primary school children to experience the enjoyment of professional football on their doorstep.
“I want to bring the young people of the area to their local football club,” explains Munnings. “I know what a positive experience it can be and how it can have a real positive influence on family life and the local community. I can't wait to get started; it will be great to see the stands full of smiling faces ready to add their support for the Shots!”
Plans include a half-time penalty shoot-out on the pitch during Aldershot Town matches – meaning that children could score a goal in front of over 3000 people – as well as a ‘Crossbar Challenge’ and the opportunity to form a Guard of Honour as both teams walk out onto the pitch. Aldershot Town players will attend school assemblies to launch initiatives and give pupils an opportunity to ask a question.
Munnings is himself a dedicated football fan, with a passion for bringing new supporters and young people into a club. He experienced the power of football in schools first hand, when a visit from his local club captain resulted in him becoming a season ticket holder. He has since attended over 600 matches.
Using his extensive network of school and local club contacts he will be aiming to repeat this feat for thousands of youngsters across the community. Andy will be bringing the future supporters of the Shots to the club and providing a high quality matchday experience for them.
Aldershot Town have enjoyed a good run of results since the appointment of former Wimbledon and Bolton Wanderers striker Dean Holdsworth as manager in January. Last season they reached the League Two Play-Offs and are hopeful of repeating that success this season.