Bristol Rovers Captain Sam Finley and Bristol Rovers Women's forward Abi Hughes have been named the PFA Community Champions for the 2023/24 season. This award recognizes players who go above and beyond in supporting their local communities and making a positive impact.
The PFA Community Champion Award is given to one player from each club in the English Football League and the Women's pyramid who demonstrates exceptional dedication to community outreach and engagement. The players are chosen based on their work in promoting social inclusion, health and wellbeing, education, and other community initiatives.
Sam Finley has been an active participant in community outreach events since joining Bristol Rovers and volunteered to become our Sports Ambassador. He has organized player visits, attended the Gas Girls kit launch, Community Trust 'Fun Days' and the Christmas Hospice visit.
As a Bristol Rovers Community College student Abi Hughes has been an active participant in the Bristol Rovers Women's team's outreach efforts, working to engage and inspire young people in the community.
Hughes has participated in the Gas Girls away kit launch in partnership with St Peter's Hospice and has also visited the Hospice herself for a tour of the incredible facilities on site. Abi has also supported the Utilita EFL Girls Cup Tournament, helping to inspire the next generation of young players in the community.
Bristol Rovers Community Trust CEO, Adam Tutton said “Both Sam and Abi have demonstrated exceptional commitment to their local communities and are deserving winners of the PFA Community Champion Award. Their dedication to social inclusion, health and wellbeing, and education serves as an inspiration to all of us and underscores the important role that football can play in promoting positive social change.”
Everyone at Bristol Rovers would like to congratulate Sam and Abi on this well-deserved recognition and look forward to continuing to work with them to make a positive impact in our local community.