The 2014 FA Community Awards presented by McDonald's are fast approaching and TheFA.com readers now have the opportunity to recognise the true stars of the game - our nation's grassroots heroes.
Every week, no matter the weather, thousands of dedicated volunteers give their valuable time and effort into supporting the grassroots game so that people of all ages, ability and gender can play football on playing fields and parks up and down the country.
There is no financial incentive. They are rarely given the recognition they deserve, yet their enthusiasm never wanes – and through The FA Community Awards we want you to help give these people the credit their efforts warrant.
From thousands of grassroots heroes, eight finalists from different regions across the country now remain – and TheFA.com readers can their say on which of the eight finalists they think should win the Outstanding Contribution to Community Football Award - otherwise known as The People's Award...
The 2014 winner will be announced before the Community Shield at Wembley
In addition to the People’s Award, first introduced in 2010, a number of other grassroots heroes will also be recognised in the following categories:
- FA Young Volunteer of the Year
- FA Volunteer of the Year
- FA Coach of the Year
- FA Charter Standard Development Club Award
- FA Charter Standard Community Club Award
- FA Charter Standard Club of the Year Award
- FA Charter Standard League of the Year Award
The People's Award will be voted for solely by TheFA.com readers, while the winners of the remaining FA Community Awards will be chosen by a specially selected judging panel, including 1966 World Cup winner Sir Geoff Hurst.
The Three Lions legend said: “I often wonder where the game would be if dedicated volunteers weren't around.
“It’s not simply about doing some coaching – important though that is. It’s about their contribution to people’s lives and to the local community, and the job they do to promote the game.
“You have whole families involved, people pooling skills, all age groups coming together, helping and encouraging each other.
Eight regional finalists, including Silverdale Athletic chairman Marko Djukic,
have been nominated for the 2014 People's Award
"This is the third year of the People’s Award and Hurst is impressed by the quality of names on the list.
“The longevity of the effort from many of the people on this list is astonishing."
“In some cases we are talking a lifetime’s dedication. What I find fantastic is that there are many examples of people like them.”
Click here to find out more about all the finalists for The People's Award and cast your vote.
