A DETERMINED teenager who has battled through adversity has been nominated for a Spirit of Youth award by his proud family.

Tony Shepherd, 15, of Hamilton Drive, Acomb, always wanted to be a footballer.

Diagnosed with Perthes Disease - a degenerative hip condition that mainly affects young boys - at the age of five, he recovered from the condition and went on to be selected for the York City School of Excellence.

But after badly breaking his ankle as a teenager, he was dropped from the squad. Tony's mother Karen, 35, said he was "devastated" after York City let him go.

"His whole life had been taken away from him," she said.

But after a month of heartbreak, Tony resolved to redirect his career as a football coach. He has now left school and works full time for the Football In The Community programme, teaching York children the "beautiful game".

Tony's grandmother, Denise, who nominated him for the award, said: "I just think he deserves it. His spirit his kept him going through it all.

"He's great - he's got friends from five to 85."

Paul Stancliffe, head of youth at York City, also paid tribute to Tony, saying: "He's a great lad and a great personality. All the staff really liked him."

Tony said he was "a bit shocked" when he found out he had been nominated for an award.

After suffering the disappointment of being dropped from York City, he said his new ambition was to be a top-class football coach.

We are still on the hunt for more of the city's community heroes.

Do you know anyone who deserves to win one of our awards? It could be a dedicated charity fundraiser, or a business that really does deliver its service with a smile.

Look out for the nomination forms that we carry regularly in our pages. Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on December 1. We are also looking for sponsors for our awards. For more information, phone Nigel Briggs or Paula Laker at the Evening Press on 01904 653051.

Updated: 10:44 Thursday, July 01, 2004