The national winners of the annual FAW & McDonald’s Grassroots Football Awards have been revealed, with Undy AFC from Gwent being crowned the winner of the 2020 Fun Football Provider of the Year award.
The awards celebrate the efforts of grassroots football clubs and volunteers across Wales who go the extra mile to support their local communities.
Launched in March this year by former Wales striker and McDonald’s Fun Football ambassador John Hartson, the public response has been extremely strong, with the People’s Choice category in particular receiving over 45% more votes this year versus 2019. The awards feature a wide mix of categories which reflect the huge range of roles that volunteers play.
Now in their second season as a Fun Football Charter Marked provider, Undy A.F.C really exemplify what the scheme is all about. The addition of the Fun Football sessions has meant the club now have a pathway for boys and girls, from those just starting out on their football journey to those that want to play as part of team competing in league fixtures.
The club has made a positive impact on the local community by providing activities for all abilities and ages with their innovative sessions engaging children and helping them fall in love with the game.
Undy AFC received this prestigious national award during a virtual awards ceremony held in Cardiff . The ceremony was hosted by sports presenter Michelle Owen and featured Wales internationals Robert Earnshaw and Megan Wynne, who were on hand to congratulate the winners.
Jayne Ludlow, Wales Women’s National Team Manager, said: “It’s been a really difficult year for the whole country, but I’m so pleased we’re able to recognise and celebrate the clubs who go above and beyond to have a positive impact on their local communities. The tireless work of Undy AFC is what keeps the game going. The club should be extremely proud of all their achievements and grassroots football in Wales is in a much better place with them being a part of it.”
Local McDonald’s Franchisee, David Balcombe, who is an avid supporter of grassroots football in Gwent added: “We just want to congratulate Undy AFC on their fantastic win, it’s great to see a national winner from Gwent. It’s been a difficult year and it’s teams like Undy AFC that keep the grassroots game going from strength to strength and we hope that this win inspires others in Monmouthshire to get involved in grassroots football.”
McDonald’s is the longest-standing supporter of grassroots football in the UK, having worked with the four UK FAs for 18 years. Throughout this time, it has continually championed the work of volunteers who invest countless hours of time to deliver safe, fun football to children and young adults regardless of age, gender or disability.
