Nathaniel Ward

Nathaniel, 9, suddenly fell ill last October and was medevaced to Southampton, where he stayed for three weeks. He was later diagnosed with Crohn’s disease.
Nathaniel had previously signed up to attend a football tournament in France with Zico Football Academy over Easter and was determined to make it. Despite the physical and mental toll his time in the hospital took on Nathaniel, he made it to the tournament. 
‘I was really happy to be able to go on the trip after being sick,’ said Nathaniel. ‘I missed my family and friends a lot when I was in hospital but everyone was messaging my mum and dad.’ 
His parents, Ollie Ward and Katrina Bray, said: ‘Nathaniel's dogged determination and quiet resilience meant he overcame his nerves and he never gave up. We are extremely proud. He has not let his time in hospital or his condition stop him from achieving so much in the six months after being so critically ill.’ 
Nominator Mike De Carteret said: ‘For Nate to be so suddenly and severely struck down was such a shock to all of us at Rovers but his resilience to get back on the pitch was fantastic. 
Ryan Zico Black also put Nathaniel forward. 
‘His courage and resilience in the face of adversity have inspired countless individuals, both on and off the field.' 
Nathaniel played an important role in the team winning the tournament.