Hatters duo Jacob Brown and Elly Wade were crowned our PFA Community Champions by pupils and staff at Tithe Farm Primary School in Houghton Regis.

The pair were nominated for the awards by the Luton Town Community Trust for the work they have done in the local community – often going above and beyond to assist in the Trust’s projects and events in the past year.

Brown was selected for his brilliant support of the Trust’s anti-discrimination work in local schools, while Wade was put forward due to her outstanding work in the community to inspire more women and girls involved with football.

Tithe Farm Primary School was the perfect venue for the presentation as the Trust delivers weekly football-based Premier League Primary Stars sessions at the school. This includes work around anti-discrimination and providing opportunities for girls to access football-specific sessions.

Wade, who captained Luton Town Ladies to a league and cup double last season, said: “When the children asked me about women’s football it caught me by surprise because it’s amazing that children of this age are thinking about the impact of the women’s game and what we’re doing to help raise the profile of it.

“It was a really nice question to have and it says a lot about women who are coming through who want to play football.

“It was also a reminder for me to keep the things we do and that there’s still plenty of work to be done, especially at youth and grassroots level.

“It’s an honour to be able to come and get to meet these amazing children and hear their incredible questions about determination and the things we do as footballers.

“For me it’s one of my favourite things about being a footballer, being at Luton and being captain.”

Brown, who is continuing his recovery from ankle injury, said: “It’s probably my favourite award to win because when I was growing up I used to look up to players as it was something I wanted to do.

“For me to be in that position now and give back to those who were in my position, it’s the best feeling.

“It’s great for the community to go into local schools and hear Elly speak about women’s football and how she’s making an impact, it’s really important, and seeing the girls’ love for football is really nice to see.”

Daniel Douglas, head of the Luton Town Community Trust, said: “I would like to thank Elly and Jacob for their outstanding and ongoing support in the community this season.

“The positive influence they have had on the thousands of individuals supported by the Community Trust has been truly inspirational.

“Both Elly and Jacob have become familiar and much-loved faces across our programmes – whether engaging with young people in schools, supporting health and wellbeing initiatives, or attending local events, their commitment has gone above and beyond.

“Their willingness to give their time, share their experiences, and connect with people from all walks of life reflects the values we hold at Luton Town. We’re incredibly proud to name them our PFA Community Champions.”

Professional Footballers’ Association CEO Maheta Molango said: “The PFA has once again been immensely proud of the outstanding efforts of players this season and we feel they should be recognised for their support and involvement in the local community.

“The award will hopefully raise awareness of the importance many of our members attach to their roles off the pitch and highlight their continued commitment to support those most in need along with engaging in areas where they have a personal interest.

“We would like to offer our congratulations to this season’s recipient of the 2024/25 PFA Community Champion Award.”

Jacob, Elly – thank you and congratulations!