Meet the founders
Edward Grange
Edward played junior football for a Step 5 club from the ages of 9 to 16.
He, too, fell out of love with the game and left football completely, only returning when his son began to show an interest. By that time, Edward was in his 40s, playing days long since passed. So he qualified as a coach and as a referee. He can be found most Saturdays refereeing in the Essex Alliance League.
Edward brings experience as both an FA Level 1 Coach and an FA Level 5 Referee, having seen grassroots football from the perspectives of a former player, coach, referee, parent and supporter.
Natalie Grange
As AFC Waltham's Club Welfare Officer, Natalie leads the club's commitment to safeguarding, inclusion and player wellbeing. She helps ensure that every child and family feels welcome, supported and valued as part of the club community.
Natalie is responsible for safeguarding and player welfare matters at AFC Waltham. The welfare and l of children will always be the club's highest priority.
George Grange "GG11"
George just wanted to play team football without the pressures he had experienced since the age of 7.
AFC Waltham was born out of that suggestion.
George is a passionate Arsenal FC supporter, and his favourite player is Max Downman
Walt
Walt the Whippet is the official mascot of AFC Waltham.
Fast on his feet but thoughtful at heart, Walt is known around the club as "the philosopher of football."
Walt believes football should be about more than winning matches. He reminds us that confidence grows through encouragement, friendships are built through teamwork, and mistakes are simply part of learning.