SAINTS forward Kamaldeen Sulemana has been awarded the PFA Community Champion award for his work with Saints Foundation.

Women's star Meg Collett has also been recognised with the award, created by the PFA to celebrate those who go above and beyond.

All clubs nominate a Community Champion each year, and winners are presented at the end of the season to recognise their support.

Kamaldeen’s standout visit saw him join a Community Champions session at Oasis Academy Mayfield, in a group of mixed abilities and needs.

He has been credited for reading the room on how to communicate best with each pupil, while he also willingly gave up extra time on another visit.

He stayed an extra half an hour to see the end of a tournament, congratulate the winners, give a pep talk to the runners-up, and take pictures.

Meanwhile, Southampton-born-and-raised Collett returned to her old school for one visit this season, Redbridge Community College.

Collett hosted a once in a lifetime opportunity to play football with a professional footballer, supporting and motivating them along the way.

Sam Fulling, Saints Foundation's managing director, said: “This season we’ve been grateful for the engagement of both first team squads in the work we do in the community.

"Kamaldeen and Meg were standouts even with a strong group. They both impressed our project staff with their commitment to the sessions, and how well they adapted to engage meaningfully with participants to ensure all gained the best experience.

"We are proud to present them as our PFA Community Champions for the 2024/25 season.” 

Maheta Molango, CEO of the Professional Footballers Association, added: “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 recipients of the 2024/25 PFA Community Champion Award.”