Thomas Monk Joins Coaching Staff

Atherton Collieries are delighted to announce that Thomas Monk has joined the coaching staff for this weekend's historic match against Bolton Wanderers. Monk, 17, will join first team coaches Michael Clegg, Warren Jones and Andy Heald on the touchline for Collieries on Saturday. Thomas started watching Colls two years ago with his Dad, Ian. They have moved to the area and were present at the end of season presentation in the clubhouse in May. Now living close to the ground they are both looking forward to the upcoming campaign and hope to get down to as many matches as possible. A sixth form student, Thomas regularly takes days out of his studies to help deliver PE sessions to Primary School children in the local area. Remarkably, he does this while coping with the everyday struggles that autism brings to his life. Diagnosed at the age of two, Thomas has worked hard throughout his life to overcome a range of difficulties that would hold other people in the same position back. As a club, we feel this resolve and commitment deserves some recognition. Thomas' family are looking forward to the match, and his father Ian said, "Myself, Thomas and his Grandad absolutely love the community here at Atherton Collieries. Everybody is always made to feel welcome. I can't thank Andy Heald and the club enough for giving Thomas this opportunity." "The volunteers at this club make it what it is. Ricky Brown invited us down a couple of years ago and we have loved every minute of following Colls since!" By being a first team coach for Atherton Collieries this weekend, Thomas will be in the heart of the action seeing how the first team prepare for a match. This is a fantastic example of how football clubs such as Atherton Collieries are inclusive communities where people from all walks of life can come together to be part of a success. We actively encourage all people to get involved and this is another occasion where somebody from the local community will be made to feel part of the Colls family.