Cardiff CityHarry Evans was named Community Participant of the Season at Cardiff City FC’s End of Season Awards, alongside his father Chris.
Chris was surprised with his and Harry’s awards at the event, after showing amazing progression since using the Sensory Room facilities at Cardiff City Stadium.
Speaking on the night, Chris said: “I was so surprised with the award and I can’t thank the Club and Foundation enough for the accessibility they’ve given both me and Harry.
“We’re lucky to have facilities like the Sensory Room at Cardiff City Stadium and without them, Harry and I wouldn’t be able to watch the Bluebirds like we do now.”
A prestigious ‘Centre of Excellence Award’ was presented at Cardiff City Stadium in February, by Level Playing Field’s Chair, Tony Taylor and Ruth Hopkins, General Manager & Head of Access and Development.
This saw the Bluebirds’ home join Wembley Stadium, The Etihad Stadium (Manchester City FC), Pride Park (Derby County FC), The American Express Community Stadium (Brighton & Hove Albion FC) and The Emirates Stadium (Arsenal FC) as one of only six football grounds to have reached this standard.
Taylor said: “After recognising the achievements of Cardiff City earlier this year, it is important to see their hard work having a direct impact upon supporters.
“We were impressed by their innovation and positive attitude towards making improvements based on our suggestions.
“Beyond that, they are showing a connected approach between the development of infrastructure and their community work, which in this instance has allowed a father and son to enjoy supporting their team together.”
Cardiff City FC Community Foundation Disability Coordinator and ED&I Lead, Chris Foot, added: “Harry has been a member of our Bluebirds Ability inclusive football sessions for a few years and his dad Chris is an avid Cardiff City fan.
“The Sensory Room at Cardiff City Stadium has provided Chris and Harry with an opportunity to watch live football as father and son in a comforting environment and that wouldn’t have been possible before.
“Cardiff City FC Community Foundation and Cardiff City FC are really proud of the changes that our facility has made to people’s lives already and look forward to seeing the impact it will have in years to come.”
Club captain Joe Ralls was also recognised on the night. He was named Male PFA Community Champion for the 2022/23 season, thanks in part to his involvement with Cardiff City FC’s Disability Supporters Club events.
Find out more about the Sensory Room facilities at Cardiff City Stadium on the Cardiff City FC Community Foundation website.