Dan Ballard: Our Community Champion in pictures

Dan Ballard has been named PFA Community Champion for his ongoing support of Sunderland AFC's official charity - Foundation of Light.

We take a look back at the defender's Foundation highlights in pictures:

Foundation first: Dan's first involvement with the Foundation came soon after his signing in 2022, when he helped see of Alexander, one of our participants, on his Children in Need Rickshaw Relay Challenge 

Always up for a challenge, Dan took part in our game to raise awareness for respiratory health ahead of No Smoking Day

Dan joined Black Cats teammates for a 'Seeing is Believing' tour to understand the Foundation's work, getting involved with our Wear Together group...

...and Veterans Football!

Dan showed his support for our 'Heart on your Sleeve' campaign...

...proudly sporting the logo on Foundation of Light Matchday in 2024

He was back at the Beacon to get involved in World Book Day celebrations...

...and got into the spirit as Where's Wally

It wasn't long before he joined us again

Getting involved in our summer holiday courses with Dan Neil

Dan joined teammate Trai Hume to surprise Sunderland AFC and Northern Ireland supporter, Toby Patterson, with a mascot place for the fixture against Brighton & Hove Albion

He has regularly signed and donated memorabilia to assist Foundation of Light's fundraising efforts

He recently came back to a Wear Together session, joining in with the games...

...and was surprised with the PFA Community Champion award, honouring four years of outstanding support for his club's community!