Norwich City captain Kenny McLean was presented with his PFA Community Champion Award for the 2025/26 season during a special visit to Norwich City Community Sports Foundation’s Realising Potential programme at The Nest on Tuesday, May 19.
Across the EFL, Football Club charities present a PFA Community Champion Award at the end of each season, with all 92 clubs recognising a player who has made an outstanding contribution to their community. The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) is the trade union and representative body for professional footballers in England and Wales.
McLean was nominated in recognition of his outstanding commitment to inspiring the community across Norfolk. Throughout the season, he has shown genuine leadership both on and off the pitch, supporting the Foundation through player appearances and advocacy that helps reach even more people.
Kenny McLean commented: “To be awarded the PFA Community Champion award is something I take real pride in. It’s very rewarding when you see the work that goes on at Community Sports Foundation and know you have even a small part in helping give people opportunity.”
“When you come up to The Nest and see what’s going on, it’s really fulfilling and so rewarding. For me, it’s a privilege to be involved.”
With the support of Ben Knapper, Kenny brought the Norwich City first team together to donate a day’s wages to the Foundation - a further reflection of his character and commitment, going above and beyond to champion the charity’s work.
Speaking about the award, Ian Thornton, OBE, CEO Norwich City Community Sports Foundation said:
“We’ve been really fortunate this season – all the players have been brilliant in the way they’ve supported our work, alongside the leadership from Ben Knapper and Philippe Clement. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone involved. Kenny is a fantastic example of what it means to represent Norwich City both on and off the pitch, and his genuine commitment to engaging with our community makes him a truly deserving recipient of this award.”
The award was presented during an evening that saw McLean spend time with around 85 participants taking part in the Foundation’s Realising Potential disability and SEND programme.
During the session, McLean joined participants on the pitch, offering encouragement and interacting with players during structured activities, before taking part in a relaxed Q&A focused on leadership, confidence and his experiences as a professional footballer.
