The 2025 FAW McDonald’s Grassroots Football Awards ceremony recognised the heroes of Welsh grassroots football.
Deserving volunteers from across the country were given awards recognising their contribution to grassroots football in Wales.
Community Club of the Year
The Community Club of the Year award went to Graig Villa Dino. Newport’s biggest club is deeply committed to growing the women’s and girls’ game, with more than 200 girls participating across all age groups in initiatives including Huddle, McDonald’s Fun Football and BE.FC.
Graig Villa Dino doesn’t just coach football, it builds confidence, friendships, and community spirit, and the club’s FAW Platinum Accreditation is a testament to its excellence in safeguarding, equality, and development.
The club continues to expand with inclusive and neurodiverse sessions. More than just a football club, Graig Villa Dino is a beacon of community, opportunity, and belonging. A place where children, regardless of ability, are welcomed, celebrated, and given the tools to thrive.
Community Coach of the Year
Neil Yapp, of Berriew FC Juniors, won the Community Coach of the Year award. Neil started his coaching journey when his daughter joined the club; he is now head of the junior section, helping manage and coordinate around 240 junior players, coaching multiple teams, and ensuring everything from training to festivals runs smoothly.
Neil is known for always going the extra mile and is especially passionate about supporting girls’ football. His positivity, encouragement, and commitment to creating a fun, inclusive, and safe environment make him an outstanding role model.
Volunteer of the Year
Chris Marsden was named Volunteer of the Year in recognition of his commitment to Caerphilly Athletic FC. Chris’ legacy is one of selflessness, friendship, and an unyielding love for the Club.
His passion for the game and the people around him embodied the true spirit of grassroots football and his impact will be felt for years to come.
Young Volunteer of the Year
Young Volunteer of the Year was awarded to Tilly Doran who, at the age of 16, manages both the U10 and U14 girls’ teams at Ystradgynlais AFC.
Tilly also runs the club tuck shop and referees events; she has also completed the FAW Football Leaders Award and continues to inspire everyone around her with her strength, compassion, and dedication to the community.
Fun Football Provider of the Year
Bengal Dragons Foundation were named Fun Football Provider of the Year. A shining example of inclusivity and opportunity for ethnic minority communities in Wales, the Foundation uses football as a means of empowerment and social integration.
They have created a welcoming space for individuals, particularly girls, who have never had access to the sport before. By accommodating all forms of attire, including religious clothing, they have fostered a culture of respect and acceptance.
The impact of their work is evident in the growing number of girls now taking an invested interest in football—many for the first time in their lives.
Grassroots Match Official of the Year
Paul Fisher won the Grassroots Match Official of the Year award. Paul has refereed at various levels for many years and leads by example, showing exemplary behaviour on and off the field.
Paul is also passionate about the development and retention of young match officials.
Football Restaurant of the Year
McDonald’s restaurant #1364 in Merthyr Tydfil received the award for Football Restaurant of the Year.
Special Recognition Award
Darren Murphy was honoured with the Special Recognition Award.
Darren had been heavily involved with Margam Youth Centre since 2008, volunteering to run and support a range of football teams including inclusion teams, running Friday youth club, maintaining the ground, and managing car park arrangements.
Together Stronger Award
The Bengal Dragons Foundation also took home the Together Stronger Award. By providing a safe, inclusive space and delivering free football sessions to over 100 boys and girls from low socio-economic backgrounds and underrepresented communities, the Foundation promotes physical activity, teamwork, leadership and discipline.
Sessions actively engage children from ethnic minority groups, ensuring they have equal opportunities to participate, using football as a vehicle for social change, inclusion, and opportunity for all.
The FAW’s Head of Grassroots Football, Ben Field said: “The FAW Grassroots Awards is a wonderful opportunity to recognise and celebrate the individuals, clubs and organisations who go the extra mile to support grassroots football, showing inspirational levels of commitment, dedication and passion to develop the game nationwide. Llongyfarchiadau and diolch to all of our nominees and winners!”
