The 2017 Scottish FA Community Awards, presented by McDonald’s and the Sunday Mail, are now open for nominations.

The awards recognise and celebrate grassroots volunteers across Scotland who make a real difference to their communities.

McDonald’s Head of Scottish Football Kenny Dalglish is calling on local communities across Scotland to nominate those grassroots heroes who have made a real impact.

He said: “McDonald’s has been playing an active role in supporting grassroots football for fifteen consecutive years.  Being involved in the McDonald’s Community Awards once again has allowed me to see the continued efforts of thousands of unsung heroes that go into making sure young players of all ages, genders and abilities reach their potential.

“Whenever I visit a grassroots club I’m always impressed to see the effort that goes into keeping them growing and developing.  It’s a lot of hard work that needs to be recognised.

“Anyone can be nominated for an award; from coaches and caretakers to club secretaries and fund raisers, anyone whose selflessness and commitment allows children to enjoy grassroots football in a safe, friendly and welcoming environment and without discrimination.”

One of 2016’s Scottish FA Community Award winners, Stephen Tortolano, exemplifies the spirit of those being nominated.

Stephen won the 2016 Scottish FA Football Volunteer of the Year award for his work coaching a disability team at Stirling City All Stars. There he is instrumental in coaching, mentoring and supporting players who represent Stirling and the Forth Valley in a wealth of competitions throughout the United Kingdom.

Stephen has met his own challenges, overcoming an accident at work where he suffered serious brain injuries. Three operations later, with eight months of intensive physio up to four times a day, Stephen defied doctor’s prediction of him not being able to walk again. He is an inspiration to his team and colleagues.

Talking about the award, he said: “Every volunteer that works in our club and across Scotland does it for the love of the game and giving children a chance to play football. 

“It was an honour to be recognised with the award and attend an event alongside so many talented, committed individuals. I had the pleasure of receiving my award from Graeme Souness in front of an amazing crowd containing Scotland Manager Gordon Strachan.”

Andy Gould, Head of Regional Development at the Scottish FA, said: “Our 15 years in partnership with McDonald’s are testament to its dedication to support grassroots football across Scotland. Over that period, we’ve recognised and awarded so many inspirational people. 

“All our winners are shining examples of the extended team Scottish football has to develop and push forward the grassroots game. We have seen real growth across the boys and girls game as well as within disability football.”

The Scottish FA Community Awards have nine categories including the People’s Award, which is voted for the by the public.

For more information, or to nominate a grassroots football club or volunteer, visit grassroots.scottishfa.co.uk