Larkfield FC was invited to attend the Community Shield on Saturday, 30 July, where this year's national winners were announced.

The FA Grassroots Football Awards are an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of the football communities across England, the beating heart that makes our game great.

The national winners were nominated by their peers, selected by their County FA, and then put forward to a National Judging Panel. The National Panel comprises of representatives from the grassroots game who select the national winners in each category.

Upon winning the national award, Larkfield FC Chair, Russell Jeffery expressed his delight. "To be honoured by the Football Association is incredibly gratifying, and we are so thankful as a club for this award,” he said.

“I'm also grateful for the talented and dedicated Volunteer workforce for our youth and ladies' teams at Larkfield FC. The club is buzzing at the moment, and my phone is red hot with messages and calls of congratulations and well-deserved messages. To be recognised as the National Grassroots Club of the Year is very special, but we won't rest on our laurels. This award is our benchmark now. We need to move forward in our journey. Thank you to everyone who's supported us!"

Darryl Haden, Kent FA's CEO, sent his congratulations to the club, saying: "We are so proud of Larkfield FC for winning this award. The passion and drive the club has shown to create this inclusive community club have been incredible. This season, the club has gone from many 'teams' to 'one club'. They create inclusive opportunities for over 18 teams, support coaches with their CPD, support and mentor young referees, help young people who may be suffering with their mental health through their Mental Health Champion, and support the community in which they operate. They have donated to food banks, engaged in a community litter pick, and supported the Plant a Tree initiative.

"Congratulations, Larkfield FC – you deserve this award."

Kent FA looks forward to hosting the Kent Grassroots Workforce Awards on the 29 September where the Kent local winners will be announced and celebrated. Watch this space! 

For further details, please contact Claire Whybrew (Marketing & Partnerships Manager) at Claire.Whybrew@KentFA.com