The FA and McDonald’s Grassroots Football Awards are for people who make a positive difference. It’s our way to celebrate the fantastic individuals who put their heart and soul into the grassroots game across England – and say a huge thank you to the incredible volunteers who inspire us all.

This season our Grassroots volunteers have adapted to the ever-changing Coronavirus pandemic. They responded quickly to make football happen when they could. And when they couldn’t play they kept players, volunteers and the wider community connected off the pitch.

They demonstrated the true power of football, they stuck together, helped each other across teams, across clubs and showed what the football community could do when faced with uncertainty and an unparalleled situation. 

Your nomination is going to mean so much to the person receiving it. They are going to be a winner in the eyes of their peers or players. 

How the awards work

The awards are split into categories, anybody can nominate people into the category through the online nomination portal. County FAs select a local winner for each from the public’s nominations. These form a shortlist for our national winners, selected by a national judging panel. 

Categories and Nomination Links

Digital Engagement Award - we're looking for an affiliated club or league who have used digital platforms in an outstanding way to stay connected with their members and attract new members before, during and after the pandemic.

Coach of the Year for adult teams - we're looking for nominations for an outstanding coach for an affiliated adult team.

Coach of the Year for youth teams - we're looking for nominations for an outstanding coach for an affiliated youth team.

Club of the Year - we're looking for a club that does everything brilliantly!

Secretary of the Year - we're looking for nominations for a secretary that goes above and beyond. 

Respect Club of the Year - we're looking for a club that embeds the RESPECT programme across their work.

League of the Year - we're looking for a league that does everything brilliantly!

Respect League of the Year - we're looking for a club that embeds the RESPECT programme across their work.

Volunteer of the Year - we're looking for an outstanding volunteer who goes above and beyond.

Project of the Year - we're looking for that transformational project that has improved the football experience for many people. 

Rising Star of the Year - we're looking for someone who has made a real contribution to football in the community. Someone who is a role model, who acts responsibly, and encourages and supports others.

Match official of the Year - we're looking for an outstanding match official.

Grounds Team of the Year - we're looking for the team that keeps your pitches in tip-top condition!

The Spirit of Grassroots Football Award - we’re looking for those special individuals, club, league or group who see grassroots football as a place to positively impact the well-being of all.  It is the forefront of their thinking. 

Services to Football Award (Long Service) - we're looking for someone who has tirelessly dedicated many years to grassroots football.