A TEENAGER from Flintshire has scooped a national football award for her volunteering efforts.

On September 20, Evie Flanagan - who volunteers for Broughton United - was named the national winner of the Young Volunteer of the Year Award.

That prize was handed out to her at the 2024 FAW & McDonald’s Grassroots Football Awards ceremony, held at the Cardiff St. David’s Hotel.

At just 14 years old, Evie has already made a significant impact at her club.

Over the past year, she has represented the club at the FA Youth Council event, become a BE Football Influencer at her high school, and is completing her Leaders Award. Evie also helps coach the U7 girls’ team and leads the Girls FAW Huddle sessions.

Evie’s dedication and willingness to give back to her club and community was described as 'truly commendable'.

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She is also said to be patient, understands the importance of communication with younger players, and is a shining example to her peers.

Popular with all participants, Evie is well-regarded at Broughton United and her achievements at such a young age are fantastic, making her a real role model for girls starting out in football.

McDonald’s Fun Football Ambassador and Welsh football legend, Helen Ward, who presented Evie with the prize said: "My career would not have been possible without volunteers like Evie who dedicate their time and effort to nurturing and expanding grassroots football within their community.

"Evie truly embodies the lifeblood of the grassroots game.  I’m so proud to be here in Cardiff to honour these incredible winners. Evie truly is a testament to Her community and an inspiration to those looking to get involved in the grassroots game.

"The FAW & McDonald’s Grassroots Football Awards are a special occasion and a chance to show how grateful we are for the hours of dedication volunteers put into make our game possible.”

Cheshire McDonald’s Franchisee Jeanette Roe who is an avid supporter of grassroots football across Wales and England, added: “Evie is a shining example of what it means to go the extra mile to make a difference in your community.

"Her work within Broughton is truly commendable and has made a huge impact. It’s clear to see that she has a very bright future ahead of her and I am sure she will continue to support the local community in Broughton for years to come. 

"It’s always an honour to be involved with the Grassroots Awards and to celebrate the volunteers like Evie, who really are the heart and soul of the grassroots game.”

McDonald’s is the longest-standing supporter of grassroots football in the UK, having celebrated Grassroots Heroes at the Grassroots Football Awards for 20 years.

In addition to championing local grassroots heroes, McDonald’s Fun Football has provided over 500,000 children aged 5-11 with free football coaching since 2022. The programme is committed to providing one million children with access to free football coaching by 2026.