Birmingham County FA announces day of celebration in memory of Tunisia victim Joel Richards
Football bosses have organised a day of 'celebration and reflection' to commemorate the legacy of Tunisia terror victim Joel Richards – which will include a match involving his friends, family and colleagues.
Birmingham County Football Association has announced the day of events which will take place next month to celebrate the legacy of 19-year-old Joel, who was an aspiring referee and grassroots football volunteer.
He was killed in Tunisia in 2015 alongside his uncle Adrian Evans and grandfather Patrick Evans.
Announcing the day of celebration, the FA described Joel as 'a high-achieving young match official, who was also actively involved in a number of areas of the grassroots game across Birmingham'.
He also served as chairman of the Birmingham County FA’s Youth Council, which provides a voice for young people in the region on the development of the game at local levels.
On the day, a match will take place in the afternoon – with Joel's friends, family and colleagues of Joel taking part to celebrate his life and work in football.
Entry will be made by donation, with all money raised going straight into the Joel Richards Foundation Legacy Fund.
The Legacy Fund, which was set up in memory of the Wednesbury teenager last year, is a bursary that provides young coaches, referees and volunteers with funds that aid development.
It gives individuals the chance to secure funds that will help to support their footballing journeys.
Kirsty Dixon, chairman of the Birmingham County FA Youth Council, said: “The Birmingham County FA hosted the launch of the fund last year, which was a brilliant day enjoyed by all.
"We were overwhelmed with the support from individuals and raised over £700. It was great to see the huge number of people that knew Joel come together through football.
“His legacy will continue through the many awards in his name – and now through the Joel Richards Foundation Legacy Fund.
"We hope to continue the support he personally provided through the fund, which will benefit many – especially those who need some support to kick-start or help them on their own football journey.”
So far the Legacy Fund has supported four young individuals, who have all been able to develop in their respective area of the game as a result.
Anybody unable to attend on the day can email kirsty.dixon@birminghamfa.com for details of how to make a donation online.
A fundraising match at the weekend saw scores of celebrities turn out at Walsall's Banks's Stadium to raise money for a charity set up by Joel's family – Smile for Joel – as well as Compton Hospice.
