We are delighted to announce that Nik Ward from Mole Valley Girls FC has been named the winner of the Surrey FA ‘Inspired by’ Recognition Award.

In the lead-up to the 2023 Women's World Cup, we launched an 'Inspired by' competition to identify an individual who has positively influenced women's and girls' football in Surrey.

Over the last month, we have received a wide range of fantastic nominations. After review, our Women and Girl's Football Development Officer, Emma Eaton, selected Nik Ward as the deserving winner of the award.

Emma had the following to say about Nik:

"Having worked with Nik for a number of years and seen first-hand not only how he has grown and developed Mole Valley Girls FC into a thriving club but how he has inspired hundreds of women and girls to play and lead in the game. He is the definition of an inspiration! We often celebrate female role models within the women and girls' game, who are pivotal in our success, but it's also important for us to celebrate male allies that have helped the female game get to where it is today, and Nik is a big part of that in Surrey."

The number of nominations Nik received speaks volumes about his dedication and commitment to the growth of girls' football.

When asked what Nik has done to positively impact the women and girl's game, one nominee stated:

"Nik tirelessly works to ensure the girls at Mole Valley Football Club play and flourish in a culture that is competitive yet collective and community based. Nik is restricted to a wheelchair with minimal ability to move physically yet you will never hear him complain or talk about himself. Instead, he listens, empathises, and inspires hundreds of players on a weekly basis. We think he is simply incredible and are indebted to his values, commitment, and ability to see people and life in a positive way."

Another nominee described Nik as:

"Inspirational, dedicated, selfless and a huge believer in community and grassroots ethos."

We would like to congratulate Nik for his inspirational work in the female game, and as the winner, he has been awarded a brand-new England football shirt, just in time to cheer on the Lionesses at the World Cup.

If you would like to learn more about how you can get involved in the women and girls' game, please head to our dedicated page below or contact Emma at Emma.Eaton@surreyfa.com.

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