Story added: 22nd May 2026

Kenny McLean honoured with PFA Community Champion Award during inspiring visit to The Nest

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. 

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. 

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. 

This season, McLean has been a visible and reliable supporter of the Foundation. He has regularly attended appearances that inspire young participants, delivered talks on leadership and career aspirations, and supported a range of charitable initiatives. His leadership as captain has extended far beyond the pitch, including attending supporter events in his own time and engaging with community initiatives. 

Most recently, he visited the Football Collectors Fair run by On the Stall City, an independent, volunteer‑led shop raising funds for the Foundation, further demonstrating his genuine connection with supporters and commitment to the community. 

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 The Nest and know you have even a small part in helping give people opportunity.” 

“When you come up here and see what’s going on, it’s really fulfilling and so rewarding. For me, it’s a privilege to be involved.” 

The Realising Potential programme supports individuals with disabilities and additional needs through inclusive sessions that build confidence, develop skills and create meaningful connections. 

McLean’s visit, combined with the award presentation, created a memorable and inspiring experience for all those involved, highlighting the powerful impact of football in communities across Norfolk.

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.”

Maheta Molango, PFA Chief Executive, added: 

“We know from our work with players that they feel passionately about using their influence in positive ways to drive change in their communities. Our PFA Community Champions have shown incredible dedication to community engagement projects over the season and it’s right that they are celebrated for the impact they’ve had. On behalf of everyone at the PFA, I extend our warmest congratulations to this season’s winners.”