Jordan Banks #JB7

On 11th May 2021, we received the devastating news that one of our players, Jordan Banks, aged 9, had tragically passed away.

Jordan began his time at Clifton in our Junior Rangers, from the outset we could see that Jordan was a special little boy and his zest for life and beautiful smile was infectious to all that he met, even if his coaches Jamie and Gavin struggled to get him to do what they wanted. Jordan was born on Christmas Day, so he was already a local star and we new that he would continue to be in the limelight.

Jordan just loved having fun and doing his own thing. Jordan progressed through the Junior Rangers and was placed into our Bees team when they entered the league at U7s under the management of Mark Turnbull and his step-dad Daniel Begg.

Jordan wore the coveted #7 Shirt, one that will always be forever remembered with his name JB7.

Jordan was an inspirational little boy, we are extremely lucky that Jordan came to us and we could be a big part of his life. One thing we can say for certain is that Jordan did more in his short life for his community than most people do in a lifetime. It’s now our responsibility to keep his legacy going and continue what came so easily to Jordan.

Whilst living through the difficulty of the Lockdown Restrictions of the Covid-19 Pandemic, Jordan had persuaded his parents to help him go out and place treats on the Windscreens of Key Workers, such as Police Officers and Paramedics, to say “Thank You” to them for the hard work they were putting in under so much pressure.

Jordan, had also himself lived through a terrible tragedy of losing his Uncle Reece, through suicide, some 18 months previous to his own untimely passing.

Shortly before Jordan passed he had recently raised over £3000 for a Local Charity, Counselling In The Community. Jordan’s “Running for Reecey” campaign to raise funds in memory of his Uncle Reece, towards a Mental Health Charity, quickly captured the imagination of the Town. Jordan soon smashed his fundraising target and he completed 30miles in 10 days! A remarkable achievement for anyone, yet this was someone so young and determined.

In Jordans memory we will be hosting a Tournament in his memory every year. The Tournament will centre around all the things that Jordan loved and whilst their will be trophies for the winner(s), the emphasis will be on fun and fundraising to support local charities.

We are extremely touched by all the support and messages of condolences we received during a really difficult time for everyone at the club when Jordan passed. The Grassroots football community and the local community were fantastic with tributes and fundraising in Jordans’ Honour.

Forever in our memories and our hearts

#JB7 #JordansLegacy #BemoreJordan

Clifton Rangers JFC