Story added: 22nd May 2026

Local favourite Freya Symonds honoured with PFA Community Champion Award

The award was presented as a surprise during a visit by Freya to her former school, Cliff Park Ormiston Academy, alongside her Norwich City Women team‑mate Evie Williams. The visit saw the players take part in an inspirational Q&A session with pupils interested in football, before a current pupil presented Freya with the award in a touching full‑circle moment. 

The PFA Community Champion awards honour players who have made significant contributions to community work and social impact initiatives over the season.

Freya’s journey with the Foundation began at a very young age, having come through the Girls Football Pathway herself. She has remained deeply involved in the programme ever since, both as a Norwich City Women player and in her staff role as the Foundation’s Girls Football Development Officer. 

Freya was nominated for the PFA Community Champion Award in recognition of her long‑standing dedication to inspiring young players, her positive presence at Foundation events, and the integral role she plays in helping girls across Norfolk realise their potential and pursue their ambitions. 

Freya Symonds, Norwich City Women midfielder and Football Development Officer, Community Sports Foundation commented:

“I was completely shocked and incredibly proud to receive this award, especially at my old school. Being part of the Foundation as both a player and staff member means so much to me, and inspiring young girls to enjoy football and believe in themselves is something I’m really passionate about.”

“I’m proud to be able to give girls opportunities that weren’t always available to me, having grown up playing in boys’ teams at a time when women’s football was nowhere near as big as it is today. It’s amazing to have an impact on the growth development of women’s football.” 

The surprise presentation at her former school marked a special moment in Freya’s story, celebrating not only her achievements but the impact of the Foundation’s long‑term investment in girls’ football across the county. 

Adam Drury, Head of Football at Community Sports Foundation added “Freya’s journey is a brilliant example of the strength of our pathway and the impact it can have. She has progressed through the system, given back at every stage and now plays a key role in shaping opportunities for the next generation. Her influence extends far beyond the pitch, and this award recognises the difference she makes every single day.” 

This season, Freya has supported multiple Foundation initiatives through player appearances and programme delivery, where she is consistently a favourite among young participants. Her approachable manner, genuine interest in young people and passion for the game have helped many girls grow in confidence, develop their skills and believe in what they can achieve. 

About the Girls’ Football and Education Pathway 

• Development Centres (DC)  
• Advanced Development Centres (ADC)  

• Academy Development Programme (ADP)  

• Emerging Talent Centre (ETC) 

• Female Football & Education Programme (FE) 

As part of a nationwide FA initiative, the Community Sports Foundation also proudly delivers the Emerging Talent Centre in our region, offering elite training for girls aged U9–U14 to develop future stars of women’s football. 

Our Female Football & Education Programme is an elite post-16 programme for talented female footballers, combining high-level training and competitive fixtures with a Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma in Sport. 

The full pathway is designed to help girls reach their full potential through structured coaching, education, and competitive opportunities.