Pleasant surprise for junior league stalwart (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Pleasant surprise for junior league stalwart

12:57pm Friday 20th February 2009 in Sport By Mike Crowther

Craven, Aire & Wharfe Junior League secretary Mike Breeze has been honoured for 30 years’ service to the West Riding County Football Association.

The Silsden-based official was presented with an award by county president Peter Marsden on Monday at a league meeting.

Breeze said: “Though I knew I was getting the award, I didn’t think it was going to be on the night. It was a total surprise.

“I’m not in the job for trophies but I am very honoured to receive this.”

Breeze has actually been involved with local junior football for longer than 30 years, running youth teams at Greenhead School, where he taught following his move from Kent in 1974.

He said: “I thought I was going to have to learn rugby league when I came up here as that was the sport that Keighley was known for.

“But I was told football was also important and got involved with the Keighley FA through Peter Pamment.”

Breeze held a number of positions on the then-named Craven Junior League before becoming secretary, a position he has held for around 20 years.

His role has seen the league – now in its 28th season – expand from a handful of teams to more than 200, stretching across the Bradford district and beyond.

Breeze retired from teaching at Beckfoot School five years ago – though still does some part-time work there – but has no plans to retire as secretary.

He said: “This kind of award spurs me on. Life can be full of knocks but something like this just encourages you.”

Alongside his administrative duties, Breeze has helped publicise the league through his photography skills. His pictures of league matches have been published in local media from time to time.

League vice-chairman Herbert Spencer paid tribute to Breeze, saying: “I don’t know if people appreciate how much work the likes of Mike put in. He does a hell of a lot and his award is much deserved.”