The FA honours Birmingham County Women’s Walking Football League for increasing female participation

Taking place before The FA’s Community Shield fixture between Crystal Palace and Liverpool at Wembley Stadium, connected by EE, the Grassroots Football Awards are a national celebration of volunteers from across the country that dedicate their time, energy and effort to allow grassroots football to thrive. This year marked a record-breaking milestone, with over 12,000 nominations submitted across 12 award categories.

Birmingham County Women’s Walking Football League won the League of the Year award for its outstanding work in creating a community for women over 35 to play football, make new friends, and improve their mental and physical health. The league kicked off in November 2023 and has since doubled in size; it has seen the establishment of two divisions based on playing levels and provided competitive walking football for 160 women.

Hosted by BBC Match of the Day presenter, Mark Chapman, the League were presented with their award by former Lioness Sue Smith. The volunteers were then honoured on the pitch at half-time and recognised in front of thousands of fans.

There are over one million people supporting grassroots football alone each year, with volunteers taking on a variety of different roles - from making teas and putting up goal posts all the way through to dedicated coaches and welfare officers. The awards are an opportunity to give back to the volunteers for their outstanding contributions to grassroots football in their community.

Subcommittee Lead for Birmingham County Women’s Walking Football League, Jay Adams, commented: “Many of the women in our league have previously faced barriers and a lack of opportunities to play football, but now with our league they have an inclusive environment to play the sport they love. The impact goes beyond sport - it ensures every woman feels supported and creates a real sisterhood bond between all the players, no matter what team they play for.”

James Kendall, Director of Football Development at The FA, said:“The England Football Grassroots Football Awards are a truly special occasion where we can celebrate the individuals who make such a positive and lasting impact on grassroots football in England.

“Volunteers are the heartbeat of the grassroots game up and down the country, ensuring the operation, participation and success of football at this level. The 12 winners are a credit to our society, and their devotion to supporting people and building communities through football deserves to be recognised.”

To find out more or to sign-up to become a volunteer, please visit the England Football website: https://www.englandfootball.com/participate/volunteer