SAFC defender Dan Ballard wins PFA Community Champion Award for his work with Foundation of Light
SAFC defender Dan Ballard has been recognised for his performances off the pitch
Sunderland AFC defender Dan Ballard said he is “extremely pleased” after being named the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) Community Champion for his work with the Foundation of Light across the 2025-26 season.
As well as excelling on the pitch with his standout season in the Premier League, the Northern Ireland international has also gone the extra mile by supporting SAFC’s official charity and their work in the local community.
Dan has regularly donated items including signed shirts and match-worn boots to assist the Foundation of Light with fundraising.
He has also made several visits to Foundation of Light sessions including attending World Book Day celebrations at the Beacon of Light as he dressed as Where’s Wally
Dan also joined in with summer holiday courses, and recently surprised young supporter Toby Patterson with a mascot place.
Foundation of Light Chief Operating Officer Jamie Wright presented Dan with his award while the 26-year-old attended a Wear Together session where the charity tackles social isolation in over 55s through a range of activities.
Dan said: “It’s nice to be presented here at the Beacon of Light and I’m extremely pleased and quite surprised..
“Everyone I speak to is just so lovely and supporting. I always think I should be doing more with the community because you know it helps people and it gives you that self-pride.
“The work that the Foundation of Light do is amazing and to be a small part of that, it brings me a lot of joy.
“The great thing is they support so many people, and not just the young children, but they’ve got so many different sessions for older people as well.
“I’ve been lucky enough over the past three or four years to have been involved in many sessions and seen the incredible work.”
On the highlight of his work with the Foundation, Dan added: “I think the visit I did recently with Trai Hume, surprising the mascot, felt really nice.
“We had a real connection, and getting to walk out with him at the Stadium, it was a really special moment.”
After presenting the award, Jamie said: “Dan has been absolutely outstanding for us this year. Everything from coming along and visiting sessions, making people’s day, to the regular donations of shirts and boots that are so important for our fundraising.
“He’s very deserving of the PFA Community Champion Award.”