Tommy Rowe named 23/24 PFA Community Champion, for incredible work & commitment within the community

Doncaster Rovers’ Tommy Rowe has been named PFA Community Champion for the 2023/24 season, following his incredible work and commitment within the community throughout the past year. 

Tommy has been involved in a whole variety of player visits within the local community in the six years he’s been at Doncaster Rovers and this season has seen him take on more of a senior role within the organisation and support of the squad for a range of visits within the city.

More recently, he’s been a major advocate for the pioneering Fit Rovers Families pre and post-natal projects, which has received national attention for helping new mum’s with mental and physical health along with navigating their way through the challenges of the early stages of parenthood. 

He’s attended the project’s weekly sessions on numerous occasions, while also being a guest speaker at the Savoy event, as the project celebrated its one year anniversary. 

Other areas of work that have seen his fantastic support is that of the Club Doncaster Sports College, offering an insight to students on the mindset of a footballer through numerous talks and providing support with the college academy teams, along with regular visits to local primary schools within Doncaster.

Speaking of being recognised for the work he does within the community, Rowe said: “The work within the community has been a massive part of the fabric of the club since I’ve been here and I believe in the last couple of seasons, it’s just gone to a completely new level.

“It’s not just the odd player visit here and there, we’re doing full squad visits and community takeovers. 

“We’re doing a lot more in parts of this area that really need our support and I really enjoy all that. 

“Part of the identity of being a footballer is about what you can give back. You don’t know the difference it makes until you get the feedback, but this season that’s been brilliant for us and it’s so fulfilling.

“The volume and intensity of it all has only increased and being part of that is really special.”

John Davis, CEO of the Foundation spoke of Rowe’s commitment to Foundation projects: “Tommy has been a mainstay of our community work this year and it has been fantastic to have his support. 

“He’s a top professional and a perfect role model for our beneficiaries. Nothing is too much trouble and he really typifies what we want from player engagement.  

“We can’t thank him enough for all the support he has given to help and promote the incredible projects we have across the local community.”

Maheta Molango – CEO Professional Footballers’ Association said: “The PFA has once again been immensely proud of the outstanding efforts of players this season and we feel they should be recognised for their support and involvement in the local community. 

“The Award will hopefully raise awareness of the importance many of our members attach to their roles off the pitch and highlight their continued commitment to support those most in need along with engaging in areas where they have a personal interest. 

“We would like to offer our congratulations to this season’s recipient of the 2023/24 PFA Community Champion Award.” 

Tommy was presented with his trophy at the recent Doncaster Rovers’ fixture against Forest Green Rovers, as part of the Foundation’s Community Day, by Annabelle Devonshire, who was acting CEO in the annual Junior Takeover Day event, alongside John Davis and PFA Representative, Ben Parker. 

Everyone at the Foundation would like to send their congratulations to Tommy on winning the award, with a huge thankyou for the continued support on local projects within the community.