Bristol Academy named FA Club of the year 2013

Bristol Academy FC was named FA Women s Club of the year for the second time in three years at the FA s annual Women s Football awards on Friday 22^nd  November.

Held at the Brewery, London, all eight WSL clubs were in attendance along with premier league clubs, national media and FA delegates for what was a celebration of what has been a fantastic year of women s football.

FA Club of the year is awarded to the club which has gained the most success in the following areas:   achieving results beyond expectations in the marketing of their club, including sponsorship deals and growing attendances, achieving high quality media coverage, overcoming challenges, supporting a range of teams and their community work. The FA has recognised Bristol Academy for their work in these areas and Bristol Academy President, Kevin Hamblin, said: “This award highlights what the club stands for, and reinforces that what we are doing is worthwhile and recognised across the country. ” It was Hamblin s vision in 2005 when Bristol Academy WFC was established which has driven the club forward to where it is today.

Bristol Academy WFC would like to thank all involved with the club who have made the 2013 season a success. The club relies heavily on its volunteers who support the match day experience for all our supporters – in the main these are our Centre of Excellence and SGS College players who give up their time to support the club. 2013 also saw the launch of The Vixens, the official Bristol Academy Supporters Club which was established by Ruth Parsons.   There are also support staff who give up their weekends and evenings to support Mark Sampson and his team to whom the club are forever grateful to. Finally, and most notably are the players who have committed to the Bristol Academy philosophy of being a community club and have all given back to the fans and local community by delivering sessions at local clubs, visiting presentation evenings and delivering at the club s football camps.

Bristol Academy Goalkeeper Siobhan Chamberlain said: “It s fantastic to win Club of the year, not just for our achievements on the pitch this year but also off it. Our support has been incredible and it s great to see so many kids enjoying playing and watching football. ” Vixen s captain Corinne Yorston added: “It is fantastic for the club. To be named club of the year twice in three seasons really shows the effort and dedication that everyone involved with the club is putting in. Knowing just how hard everyone works behind the scenes and how much this club means to everyone, this award is thoroughly deserved. ”

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