The FA is today delighted to launch the 2010 Respect and Fair Play Awards which will recognise those leagues, clubs, organisations and individuals that are seeking to promote high standards of behaviour in our national game.
The Awards have twelve separate categories recognising the highest levels of the Professional Game, the National League System, the Women’s Football Pyramid and the Grassroots Game.
Leagues and Clubs have the opportunity to have their commitment recognised as well as grassroots organisations that have campaigned to improve the game and individuals that have led by example. Prince William’s involvement in the awards arises from his wish to recognise those that are seeking to tackle some of the most difficult problems in the national game. The winners of each category will be invited to attend the 2010 FA Cup Final sponsored by EON and be presented with their Awards and a cash prize by Prince William. One of the prestigious awards available is the ‘Bobby Moore Award – presented by the Bobby Moore Fund - Cancer Research UK –available to anyone in Football that by their conduct over their career provide an example of the way in which the game should be played or administered.
Dermot Collins the FA’s Respect Manager commented ‘Too often Respect is just mentioned when we witness poor behaviour in the game. These Awards allow us to recognise positive attempts to encourage players, coaches, spectators or teams to strive for high standards of behaviour, deal with poor conduct, incentivise Fair Play or value Referees. These Awards also allow us to recognise Respect as something that is crucially importance for the whole of football - the professional and the grass roots game. The two sides are different but interdependent’
With 12 categories of Award applications are invited from throughout the game – either through self nomination or by a third party. Applications forms are available from the Respect area on TheFA.com or by contacting Samantha.sharman@thefa.com
The closing date for applications is April 12th with a shortlist to be considered by an Awards Panel made up of experts from across the game. The winners will be invited to attend the FA Cup Final on Saturday May 15th.