First team star Jonny Hayes will take up a new role this season which will see him becoming the first ever official player ambassador for the AFC Community Trust.

The influential winger has made over 300 appearances for the first team during two spells at Pittodrie since signing in the summer of 2012. The Irishman, who was part of the 2014 League Cup winning side, has again this season been one of the most consistent performers. He has also joined the AFC Youth Academy coaching staff.

As the first AFCCT player ambassador Jonny will actively champion and promote the diverse programmes which the Trust oversee, using the power of football to help transform lives for the better. He recently paid a visit to the Football Memories project, run in conjunction with Alzheimers Scotland, where he reminisced with participants about his career.

Jonny will work to encourage Dons supporters to engage with the Trust whilst raising awareness and inspiring participants to get involved. From those on active ageing programmes through to young people across the region, his profile will enable the Trust to maximise the potential of the community across the north-east, improving physical and mental wellbeing.

He will also use his position at the Club to become a role model for many youngsters who work with the Trust through its education and employability programming, as well as engaging in football and other activities.

The Trust is reliant on attracting external funding in order to continue and expand its much-needed support for the community. Jonny’s involvement will help boost the Trust’s profile, enabling it to harness much needed support and in turn continue to make a positive impact across the north-east.

Commenting on his appointment as AFCCT Ambassador Jonny said: “I’ve been doing coaching within the Youth Academy and have been working alongside some of the coaches from the Trust and it’s provided a real insight as to what really goes on behind the scenes, and the level of out-reach they have in the local community.

“I really feel it’s an area where we can help each other out. The first team represents this football club, and the city in general, so if we as players can do our bit to help out and make a difference to the great work the Trust are carrying out, I am happy to help lead on that front.

“The work they do across the region and across their many projects is incredible. The more that we can do to help raise the profile and improve the lives of many people in the north-east will, I am sure, have a positive impact.

“I said many years ago I am so grateful to the club for everything they have done for me during my time at Pittodrie. I am indebted to the football club so if I can give a little bit of my time to brighten someone else’s day and help the Trust continue their fantastic work I will support in any way I can.”

AFCCT Chief Executive Liz Bowie added: “We are thrilled to have Jonny as our AFCCT Ambassador.

“A firm favourite with the Red Army, I know that Jonny will bring his trademark energy and enthusiasm that we see on the pitch into his work with us.

“He is a role model to so many young people in the region and I know his involvement will have a hugely positive impact on all of our participants.

“We are looking forward to working closely with Jonny as we move forward with our work in the north-east.”

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