Sean Royce steps down as Tigers Trust Chair

 

Sean Royce first discovered the Tigers Trust through our Football Centres, which his son attended. As a Hull City fan, he quickly understood the important role the Trust played in the community. He was introduced to the Board by Trevor Bonas, one of the founding family members of Bonus Electrical, based in Hull. 

 

Reflecting on his 12 years as a Trustee, Sean described the experience as extremely rewarding and a great time to be involved. He said the Trust has evolved from “a bag of balls and soccer schools” into one of the most impactful charities in the local area, making a positive difference in people’s lives." 

 

When asked about his most memorable achievements, Sean highlighted three key moments. First, being named Charity of the Year at the Hull and East Yorkshire Business Awards 2024 a hugely rewarding accolade. Second, the transformation of the Trust itself, from humble beginnings at Boothferry Park to becoming a well-known, multi-faceted charity doing great work across the communities it serves. Third, the challenge of COVID: when funding dried up and schools closed, the Trust pivoted. It partnered with various organisations in Hull to support people in need, providing engagement through Zoom for those feeling isolated, working with food banks, supporting the homeless and elderly, walking dogs, and helping keep the community safe and connected. “It was a really difficult time,” Sean said, “but looking back, we did a wonderful job.” 

 

Sean also spoke about how he has seen the Trust develop and shared his hopes for the future. “I’ve been very lucky to work with three incredible leaders of this charity,” he said. “We started with John Davies, a fantastic ex-footballer and goalkeeper, who launched the Trust with just a bag of balls at Boothferry Park, running soccer schools across the city. But I felt we could do more. When we brought in Catherine Bishop as Chief Executive, I wanted transformation. She had no football background, and I saw that as a strength a fresh perspective. Under her leadership, we created aspirations in our communities, built pathways to careers, education opportunities, and promoted health and wellbeing. Through the power of the badge, we continued soccer schools but added so much more. Now, with Lorna at the helm, I’m confident she’ll build on that foundation and take it even further.” 

 

Finally, when asked what he’ll miss most, Sean said: “Working with the team. They’ve been terrific, so much energy, so much desire to make a difference. Always happy, always smiling. Sure, we had our bumps in the road, but they’re a wonderful bunch. They don’t do it for money, they do it because they care. They really care about the people they work with in the community. I’ll miss them all.” 

 

A huge congratulations to Sean Royce on his remarkable achievement of 12 years at the Tigers Trust and we wish you all the best for the future