GERALDINE Day is aiming to offer a different perspective after being elected to the Suffolk FA Board of Directors.

The 47-year-old, who was born and lives in Ipswich, has been involved in football for the past eight years.

Geraldine, who has completed a National FA Women's Leadership Course, has been involved with Holbrook Hornets as child welfare officer for two years and club secretary for six years.

She has also been the Suffolk Youth League’s Charter Standard and Welfare Officer for two years and a Suffolk FA Council member for the past year.

Geraldine, whose son plays for Ipswich Exiles Under-15s, works in sales for computer company, Getech Ltd, who provide computer hardware for higher education.

She said: “From watching my son, who is now also a referee, play football since under-7 level, I have seen football give so much to all involved – developing players’ confidence, team spirit and the social aspect.

“I don't like the over-passionate coaches and parents who cannot control their anger pitch side.

“However, to provide the environment where these personal qualities can develop, we all must ensure behaviour which contravenes the Respect Codes of Conduct is challenged and ultimately eliminated from our game.

“I aim to bring a different aspect, diversity and different outlook to other Board members through my experience of grassroots football and how decisions made by the FA affect clubs/leagues positively or negatively.” 

Suffolk FA Chairman Phil Lawler said: “The Suffolk FA Board of Directors have been exploring ways we can ensure decisions made take into account all aspects and levels of football in Suffolk.

“When reviewing the make-up of the Board, it was clear we were lacking a Director with current experience of what it’s really like in a grassroots Club environment.

“Geraldine will not only add this to the Board, but also complementary experience within a local league, the viewpoint of a parent of a young official, a demonstrable passion and knowledge of safeguarding within our sport, and a personal ethos which mirrors the new vision and objectives of Suffolk FA.

“She will be a fantastic addition to the Board and the organisation as a whole, helping us to continue to nurture A Thriving Local Game.”