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John Bakker RIP

It is with great sadness that we announce John Bakker, our Board Safeguarding Champion, passed away in March.

It is with great sadness that we announce John Bakker, our Board Safeguarding Champion, passed away in March. John was able to celebrate his 70th birthday two weeks before he died.

Despite undergoing a long battle with cancer, and whilst undergoing treatment, John had been instrumental in changing the Amateur FA’s handling of safeguarding, turning the Alliance around from failing to meet the Safeguarding Operating Standard to two successive passes.

The NSPCC in their report from November 2022 said, “There is an impressive amount of experience and support provided by the Board, in particular the Board Safeguarding Champion. Not only does the BSC bring impressive academic credentials, but he also brings extensive safeguarding knowledge.”

Jason Kilby, Chief Executive Officer said, “I am deeply saddened to hear of John’s passing following a courageous battle against ill health. John joined our Board months before the Covid lockdown, and despite being separated by lockdown restrictions from his wife Marcie in Argentina, he was always there to provide support and guidance to myself and the team. I will sincerely miss his kindness, rational thought and integrity that he brought to the role.”

Our thoughts are with his family and friends.

John’s funeral will take place on 28th April in Kent. If you would like details please contact info@amateur-fa.com.