When Jan Butler first helped her husband Bernie coach a junior side at Baschurch Juniors back in 1992, she had no idea that football would become a lifelong calling. What started as supporting a local team soon grew into more than three decades of service to young people and grassroots football across Shropshire.

Jan’s passion has always been simple: giving children the chance to play, grow and enjoy the game – whatever their ability. From her early days as a club secretary to becoming General Secretary of the Shropshire Junior Football League in 2002 (a role she still proudly holds), Jan has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to keep youth football thriving.

Jan Butler and Mike Hames – SJFL

But she’s never stopped there. She’s taken on roles as Vice Chair, League Welfare Officer and, since 2009, the driving force behind the league’s Futsal Festival, introducing thousands of young players to the fast-paced indoor game.

In 2018, she brought her experience to the Shropshire FA’s Participation Committee, continuing to push for more opportunities for children to get involved.

For Jan, it has never been about title – it’s about people. Generations of young players, parents, coaches and volunteers have benefited from her dedication, warmth and quiet determination. She has become a constant presence in Shropshire football: reliable, approachable and always putting the kids first.

Jan’s story is more than one of long service – it’s one of love for the game and belief in what it can do for young people. Her impact cannot be measured in trophies or titles, but in the smiles, friendships and lifelong memories created on pitches across the county.