Adams Hails Wingate Captain Ellis
MILLET SPORT
While Tony Adams may have been the main draw, fronting a Q&A session, the evening was held to honour 13 years of superb service given to the club by Craig Ellis, and the defender spoke of the great joy and happiness he's enjoyed at his time at the Abrahams Stadium.
"I've made a lot of friends here and have loved every minute of it, win, lose or draw. It's a great place to be and that's why I've been here such a long time."
Reflecting on some of his highlights at the club, he said: "We had a really good run in the FA Cup last year when we got knocked out by Bishops Stortford in the last qualifier, while when I was in the U18's we got to the first round proper of the FA Youth Cup before getting knocked out by Barnet. There have been some great games here when we beat AFC Wimbledon which was a huge achievement, there have been some great games here and hopefully many more to come as well."
Making the night extra special for him was the presence of Adams, whom Ellis described as being a legend in his eyes. "It didn't really sink in that eveyone was here for me until the first speeches of the night, I felt as if it was all for Tony," he said. "A lot of people came for him, but it was amazing that he came here for me, I can't thank him enough for doing that."
Paying tribute to Ellis at the club, Wingate assistant manager Ben Winston said: "I'm delighted that tonight we are paying tribute to Craig Ellis. It is rare in football, whether it be non league or the top level, for a player to stay at the same club for 13 years. Craig has done just that, and is so deserving of the evening laid on for him tonight.
There is a real synergy having Tony here tonight. Both outstanding centre halves, both great leaders, and both fiercely loyal to their club.
"It is a brilliant night for the club. To have so many people here, celebrating Craig's acheivement, while also celebrating Wingate's continual progress is fantastic. Lets hope our end of season awards night is as successful - celebrating promotion."
However, the last word on Ellis went to Adams who said: "I spent my whole career with one club and I can identify with anyone that shows that amount of loyalty. I had 21 odd years at Arsenal and it's great that people like Craig are loyal, he works hard, and is a good professional."
MILLET SPORT
