KIRSTY Smith said it was a ‘huge honour’ after Suffolk FA were shortlisted at The FA’s County FA Recognition Awards.

The Refugee Project in Suffolk, organised by Kirsty who is Suffolk FA Football Development Officer (Growth), was a finalist in the Special Recognition category of this year’s national awards.

The project was up against Birmingham FA, Sheffield & Hallamshire FA and Sussex FA, whose Safeguarding Comic project scooped the first prize.

Members of Suffolk FA staff and Board attended the awards ceremony at Wembley Stadium where Ellen White, England Women’s all-time leading scorer, was the guest of honour.

Kirsty was responsible for setting up and delivering the Refugee Project which saw refugees in Suffolk provided with football kit and boots from Boots2Africa, and matches arranged for them to play in.

This was followed by a Football Welcomes Refugees’ Festival on the 3G pitch at Needham Market FC as part of Amnesty International’s Football Welcomes Month.

Kirsty said: “It was a huge honour to be shortlisted for the National CFA Recognition Awards last night. It was a great night spending time with other CFAs, networking and celebrating the successes that we’ve had over the course of the season.

“I don’t deliver projects because of awards or nights like this, however it’s great to be recognised and makes all the hard work feel even more appreciated.”

“Thanks to the National FA for providing an unbelievable night and to the Suffolk FA team & board for their support over the season and for such an enjoyable time last night.”

Kirsty is pictured with a framed certificate alongside the Women’s Euro trophy which the England Lionesses won at Wembley Stadium in the summer.

Suffolk FA Chief Executive Richard Neal said: “With this project Kirsty, supported by other members of the staff and Board team, has created new partnerships with organisations who we have not previously worked with to use football as a vehicle to bring some happiness and smiles to people’s lives.

“We’re very proud to have been be shortlisted in an ultra-competitive category of this year’s County FA Recognition Awards, and will strive to continue this calibre of project to use the power of football for the widest possible social good.”

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