Watford defender Christian Kabasele has been presented with the Community Champion award by the Professional Footballers’ Association.
Nominated by the club’s Community, Sports and Education Trust, the 31-year-old has played a key role in community projects and continues to be a fantastic advocate for inclusivity and highlighting football’s powerful role in eradicating inequality.
During the previous campaign, the Belgium international was announced as an ambassador for the Women of Watford supporters’ group, taking part in an open discussion with founder members.
Kabasele also supports important anti-racism campaigns. He took part in a virtual call with the Premier League Kicks programme to discuss the fight against racism, and while personal commitments meant he couldn’t attend the Show Racism the Red Card live event, he was on hand to take part in an interview with the press on the subject.
Even though the 2021/22 season had concluded, in the summer Kabasele made time to support Premier League Primary Stars at the national finals held at Vicarage Road. The centre-back met with Watford’s teams, other staff and guests, as well as taking part in the event.
A proactive member of the Watford community, Kabasele has participated in the Christmas lights switch-on, a virtual matchday mascot question and answer session, and an all-squad Junior Hornets coaching day at the London Colney training ground.
The Hornets hero was presented with his award during a summer holiday session organised by the Trust, at Westfield Academy.
On the special PFA prize, Kabasele said: “For me, getting involved is really important because I was a kid like them. I remember when I saw a football player at that age - I was going crazy. To be able to give back to the community after what I have received from football is the normal thing to do.
“We are lucky people in life because we don’t have problems as many do right now. We need to give our time and money to the community and make sure we can show the supporters that we still care about them, even if we are in a lucky position in life.
“I think the Trust’s work is amazing. I had the chance to enter my son on one of the courses last year and we can see how dedicated everyone is to helping the community. If I can keep helping them, then I will try to do my best.”
The Trust’s Community Director Rob Smith added: “Christian shares our family and community values, and continues to showcase that time and time again. We are lucky to have him and thank him for his ongoing support.
“While he is a humble guy that of course does not do it for recognition, we are pleased to be able to show our gratitude through this PFA award.”
For more information on the Trust’s fantastic work, click HERE.
