FA Community Awards nominations open for 2015

Monday 02 Feb 2015
Chris Byrne collects his award from Sir Geoff Hurst at Wembley last August
Nominations are now open to find this season’s footballing grassroots hero. 

The winners will be nominated by the general public, who get to vote online with the winner unveiled at this year’s FA Community Awards, presented by McDonald’s.

The awards have been a part of the grassroots calendar for the past six years and were established to salute the grassroots clubs and volunteers who give up countless hours to support the game.

Watch the story of the 2014 FA Grassroots Awards' People's Award winner, Chris Byrne.

 

So who will follow in the footsteps of Chris Byrne of Lancashire-based Ribchester FC – the winner of last year’s People's Award. 

Chris re-launched the club after it had folded. He used the newly-formed organisation as a platform to develop players and introduce a network of coaching mentors. His endeavours have helped several young players among the Ribchester ranks join football academies.

Last year saw a record number of nominations with thousands of clubs and individuals being put forward through their counties.

There are seven categories including Volunteer of the Year, FA Charter Standard Community Club of the Year and the coveted People’s Award, won by Chris for his outstanding contribution to grassroots football.  

Behind the scenes with 2014's Community Club of the Year

 

The 2014 winners included Berkhamsted Raiders, which was named FA Charter Standard Community Club of the Year and Sue Bonnington from Derbyshire who claimed the Volunteer of the Year honour.

Winners will be honoured at county level before being shortlisted for regional honours. The regional winners will then be put forward to a judging panel featuring legends of the game like Martin Keown and McDonald’s Director of Football, Sir Geoff Hurst. The selected national winners will go on to receive their awards at a ceremony held at Wembley Stadium.

Greg Dyke, Chairman of the FA said: "Discovering the stories behind the nominations is truly humbling. They provide examples of those that have made a massive positive contribution to football all across the country. The task of selecting winners is immensely difficult – and I'm sure picking the winners this time around will not be any easier.

Meet 2014's Volunteer of the Year from The FA Grassroots Awards

 

"But what a nice challenge – it’s a huge compliment to all the leagues, clubs and individuals that continue to show such tremendous levels of passion and dedication across grassroots football. I wish all entrants the very best of luck."

To vote for a football club or volunteer, click here now.

By FA Staff