Black Cats duo named Community Champions

Donald Love and Simona Koren have been recognised for their support of Sunderland's AFC's official charity Foundation of Light and local community projects. The pair have been named the club's PFA Community Champions for 2017-18 and received their awards during a special presentation at the Academy of Light. Scottish defender Love was nominated for his significant contributions to various activities throughout the season including the Foundation's school sports initiatives, visiting Grace House Children's Hospice as part of the club's work with Kick It Out and being interviewed by Utilita's Junior Journos.

It’s a fantastic honour to receive the PFA Community Champion Award. I enjoy being a part of the community work the Foundation and club do around the area and it's a great feeling to be able to give something back.

Donald Love

Simona's commitment in promoting the Foundation's women and girls football programmes, including inspiring over 80 youngsters at a Premier League Primary Stars Football Festival, saw her collect the Community Champion Award on behalf of SAFC Ladies. The Austria forward, 23, who has enjoyed an impressive first season for the Lady Black Cats, also backed the Beacon of Light which will engage thousands of young people and adults in sport each year. Koren added: "I am absolutely thrilled to be named SAFC Ladies' PFA Community Champion for this season. "It's really important for female players to be positive role models for girls wanting to get involved in football and vital we help grow the women’s game." The Community Champion Awards are facilitated by the Professional Footballer’s Association (PFA) and recognise players' outstanding contribution to their club's community projects. Jamie Wright, Assistant Director for Sales and Delivery, said: "Donald and Simona have made an outstanding contribution to our community work across the North East and we are proud to present them with their awards. "We’re very lucky to have players who give up their spare time to support the Foundation, inspire our participants and highlight our work."