Leeds United star wins PFA Community award with dedication and 'Marching on Together' message
Ilia Gruev has been recognised for his off-pitch work while at Leeds United.
Leeds United midfielder Ilia Gruev has dedicated his PFA Community Champions Award to the volunteers ‘working tirelessly’ to make the city a better place.
Gruev was presented with the award by former Leeds defender and PFA Community Liaison Executive, Ben Parker, on Sunday as his side wrapped up their Elland Road campaign with a 1-0 win over Brighton. The Bulgarian has been recognised for his charitable work off the pitch, much of which has been undertaken alongside Community Integrated Care, one of the UK's largest health and social care charities.
In November, Gruev marked his new role as an ambassador for the charity by spending time with three Leeds fans who all receive help from Community Integrated Care to live independently. He met with Barry Thornton, 88, Leslie Swithenbank, 71, and Jim Martin, 86, also paying for TV subscriptions so the trio could watch their beloved Whites from home.
Gruev also recently met with Premier League Community Captain and Leeds United foundation coach Hope Gatewood. The Leeds midfielder and Sam Byram presented Hope with her Community Captain’s armband for her work delivering free football sessions for youngsters from disadvantaged areas.
In a post on Instagram, Gruev wrote: “I am incredibly honoured to receive @the_pfa Community Champion Award. When I joined @LeedsUnited, I quickly realized this club is a family deeply rooted in a passionate community. Meeting so many amazing people across the city has been incredibly rewarding.
“As players, we are in a privileged position and it’s our responsibility to give back to those who support us through everything. This award might have my name on it, but it truly belongs to my people at @CommunityIntegratedCare, the volunteers and everyone working tirelessly to make Leeds a better place.
“Thank you to the PFA, the club and most importantly, the people of Leeds for always welcoming me with open arms. We keep marching on together.”