It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of former County FA council member and discipline committee chairperson, Alan Jackson, who has died at the age of 79.

Alan dedicated his life to the beautiful game and was a highly respected figure in the Sheffield and Hallamshire football community. 

His football journey began as player in Sheffield in the 1960s, and his passion and commitment to growing the game would see him serve as a club secretary for Nether Edge FC in the Sheffield Nomads League, where he eventually went on to become league secretary. 

In the 1970s, Alan qualified as a referee and achieved Class 2 status – an impressive accomplishment that reflected both his skill and integrity. 

He became a Sheffield & Hallamshire County FA council member in the 1980s, making an immeasurable contribution to local football for over two decades. He was then elected as chair of the discipline committee, a role where his fair-mindedness and sense of justice shone through, earning him the respect and admiration of players, referees, officials and everybody involved in the game.

Commenting on the sad news, County FA chair, Brian Coddington, said: “Alan was the heart and soul of local grassroots football, making it his life’s work to grow and develop our local game.

“He understood that grassroots football is about the people – the players who love the game, the volunteers making football happen, the match officials playing a vital role on the pitch.

“His dedication and passion for the game was infectious, and as a County FA we will keep his legacy going by ensuring that grassroots football continues to thrive, just as he envisioned.”

The thoughts and condolences of everybody at the Sheffield & Hallamshire County FA are with Alan’s wife Patsy, his two daughters, Helen and Johanna, and the rest of his family and friends.