AFTER TWENTY-ONE CONSECUTIVE years as Barking & Dagenham boys’ district manager, with several more seasons before his unbroken run, popular ex-teacher David Moore has sadly stepped down from his role. In his final campaign, the team were all set to add the Essex Finch League to his impressive list of hauls before Covid-19 forced a cancellation of the league.
In 2002, Mr. Moore oversaw the side that won that same competition for the first time since the Tony Adams/Steve Potts team of 1977 before repeating the feat in 2011, 2013 and in 2018.
County 7-a-side titles were captured seven times as well as the borough’s only Lester Finch Trophy crown in 2010.
Impressive
There was a memorable Spring day in 2006 when Moore’s Barking & Dagenham lifted the London SFA Crisp Shield in front of a sizeable crowd in the last competitive match at Arsenal FC’s Highbury Stadium.
But perhaps the most impressive achievement was when BDSFA became national champions in 2012 when a 2-0 win over Plymouth settled the final amid jubilant scenes at Chelsea FC’s Cobham facility.
Over the years, Mr Moore selected dozens of 11-year-olds who went on to bigger things. From established stars such as John Terry, Paul Konchesky and Benik Afobe, to young guns making their way in the professional game such as Irdis Kanu and Max Watters, the experience provided by district football has played a huge role in their development.
Of course, all of that pales into insignificance compared to the happy memories forged in the minds of the hundreds of players to pass through the ranks under his watch.
Memories
Tributes have been pouring in to the BDSFA Twitter feed:
- “Congratulations Dave Without people like Dave, District football would not be happening. We need to keep it going for all the great people that have given so much to representative football.” (Paul Belcher – Newham SFA)
- “Dave Moore has been an absolute stalwart for @bdsfa1 for over 21 years providing district football opportunities for hundreds of boys over the years. A great coach and manager and a truly lovely man. Many thanks Dave – enjoy restful weekends!” (Elaine Burgess – Barking & Dagenham SSP)
- “Outstanding service to Schools football Mr Moore.” (Essex SFA)
- “Top guy had loads of laughs together.” (Beau Parker – ex-BDSFA girls’ captain & Enfield Town Ladies)
- “All the very best wishes for the future Mr Moore – we have great memories of district football for both of the boys xx.” (Jemma Turner – parent)
Future
Mr Moore will continue in his role as Chairman, Treasurer and Life Member of BDSFA and may well be seen at district matches in the future.
But, for now, thank you for all you have done – you will be sorely missed.