Perkins, also known as JP, worked at Molineux between 2000-2009 as assistant academy manager and under-18s coach while also being in charge when Wolves’ talented youngsters reached the semi-finals of the FA Youth Cup in 2005.
Appropriately, Wolves U23s will play at Hinckley’s Leicester Road FC, who play in the Midland Football League, on Friday 13th July – kick off 7.30pm – for The John Perkins Memorial Trophy.
The match has been organised by Leicester Road FC manager Neil Lyne, who as a young semi pro player with Leicester United also signed for Nottingham Forest with John Perkins in 1989.
Perkins sadly passed away in October 2016, aged just 69, following a short illness and at the time was senior academy coach at Stoke City FC.
Wolves sporting director Kevin Thelwell explains, “John was a huge part of the development plan we had here at Wolves.
"He had a great relationship with the players and an infectious attitude that really brought the best out of the youngsters.
"Coaching was his true love and he was at his best when he was on the grass – that was his passion.
"Nearly two years on we are truly sorry to have lost him, as he was not only a trusted colleague but a great friend.”
Wolves academy manager Gareth Prosser said, “JP was a hugely influential figure at Wolves and had bags of coaching experience.
"He was a massive help to me when I joined and is a sad loss to everyone here and in the game.
"He was well liked around Compton Park, all the players respected him and he really knew his stuff – but he also didn’t take any messing around.
"He was an all-round good guy, with a real passion for the game and developing young players.”
Rob Edwards added, “we’re privileged to be part of the day and really looking forward to the game.
"Anything we can do in his name, we’re more than happy to help.
"John was a very important part of the successful youth set up here and helped develop a lot of the talent that came through the ranks.
"I was a player here at the time and he had a great reputation as a coach and was a good man too.
"He did an equally fantastic job at Stoke’s academy as well and that was at Premier League level.”
