Dan Ballard named as Sunderland AFC’s 2025/26 PFA Community Champion
Sunderland AFC defender Dan Ballard has been named as PFA Community Champion for his work with the Foundation of Light across the 2025-26 season.
Win Mascot Place with Wear Winners
Foundation of Light and Sunderland AFC have come together to launch Wear Winners, a brand-new prize platform giving supporters the chance to win unforgettable experiences while supporting life-changing work across the North East.
Designed to bring fans closer to the Club, Wear Winners offers exclusive prizes, from matchday moments to behind-the-scenes access, with every entry helping to fund programmes that make a real difference in local communities.
To celebrate the launch, supporters can now enter for the chance to win an unforgettable Sunderland AFC mascot experience during the 2026-27 Premier League season.
One lucky winner will see a young fan walk out at the Stadium of Light alongside the players.
The prize includes:
- A full mascot experience at a Premier League fixture
- Two match tickets (child and parent/guardian)
- The chance to be part of the matchday, not just watch it
Every entry into Wear Winners directly supports Foundation of Light’s work across the region, helping young people develop skills, improve wellbeing, and create brighter futures.
With one in three children in Sunderland growing up in poverty, the need for that support has never been greater. By entering, supporters aren’t just chasing a prize, they’re backing something bigger.
Young people inspired by Sir Bob Murray at celebration event
Young people from across County Durham were given a special opportunity to meet Sir Bob Murray as part of a celebration event recognising participants of the Sir Bob Murray Award.
Foundation of Light to celebrate life-changing 25 years at 2026 Gala Awards Dinner
Foundation of Light’s Gala Awards Dinner will return in 2026, marking a milestone celebration of 25 years of life-changing impact across the North East on Friday 2 October.