The grassroots heroes of 2018!

The FA and McDonald’s Grassroots Football Awards are for people who make a positive difference.

We recognise those individuals and groups who put their heart and soul into the game. This was our chance to celebrate the fantastic work that goes into the grassroots game – and say a big thank you to the incredible volunteers inspiring us all to aim for greatness.

Football is a game For All. It is people who make grassroots football happen week-in, week-out. From supporters, referees, coaches to volunteers. The winners of the awards were judged against the FA’s PRIDE Values with the public asked to nominate those who behave with fairness and integrity, and create a fun, safe and inclusive environment for everyone. Nominations should include how they are always striving for the best – in themselves and those around them. We also wanted to hear about how they have risen to and overcome challenges, and how they’ve had a truly positive impact in their community.

The Grassroots Heroes of 2018 are listed below: 

Mum of the Year - Marie Brown

Respect award - Ursula Spencer

Grounds Team of the Year award - Brian Mallinson

Coach of the Year award - Andy Clavin

Ces Ceasar award - Mani Salim, Shazad Bashir, Majid Hussain

Charter Standard Club of the Year award - Bradford Disability FC

Safeguarding Champion of the Year award - Steve Shippey

Young Referee of the Year award - Daniel Gilpin

Outstanding Contribution to Refereeing award - Bill Reay

Outstanding Contribution to Disabilty Football award - Cameron Osburn

Club Committee Member of the Year award - Sara Bedford

Community Project of the Year award - Leeds United Foundation

Young Volunteer of the Year award - Joseph Pritchard 

Volunteer of the Year award - Luke Cooper 

Above and Beyond award - Angela Emery

We would like to thank everyone who made a nomination and everyone who attended the awards evening.

A big congratulations to all the winners and to everyone who made the shortlists, thank you for supporting and developing the grassroots game in our county.