Volunteers make Diablo FC go
Alford, Paff named Volunteers of the Year

Posted: 7/15/2009 
Updated: 7/31/2009

July 15, 2009

Like most non-profit organizations, Diablo FC is able to offer its comprehensive soccer program because of the many dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly on behalf of the club and for each of our 47 competitive teams. At the club’s annual Crab Feed this year two individuals were recognized for their outstanding contributions as Diablo FC Volunteers of the Year for the inaugural 2008-2009 season.

Gina Paff, tournament director of the Summer Classic again this year, has served youth soccer for many years. Besides her duties as tournament director, Gina has been a Golden State Soccer League age group administrator, ticket sales director for the Diablo FC Crab Feed and a coach, referee and board member in our community.

Sharing honors with Gina is Thomas Alford, who holds the appropriate position of Diablo FC Volunteer Coordinator. Thomas and his wife Rhonelle are managers of two teams (they have three children playing in the club). He also referees and was assistant tournament director and referee coordinator for the 2008 Devil Mountain Jamboree.

Receiving special recognition at the Crab Feed was Leigh Kirmsse. She is the driving force behind the Diablo FC Hope Fund, which raised money from generous individuals and businesses to fully fund club expenses for 17 players who would not have otherwise been able to participate in the program during the 2008-2009 season.

Diablo FC board member Jay Bedecarre was honored by the city of Concord this year when he was presented the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Concord Human Relations Commission for his community service efforts, especially with youth sports. Bedecarre has served as a founding board member of Diablo FC after being on the Diablo Valley Soccer Club board for many years. He co-founded the Concord Cup youth sports competitions and is currently chairperson of Concord Cup soccer.