What makes a Community Champion?
Helping Society
Away from the pitch, many footballers from around the world have displayed selfless acts of charity that help contribute to a more inclusive and resilient society. FIFPRO's Community Champion series gives players the chance to tell their story.
Across the Globe
FIFPRO highlights Community Champion stories of footballers from every continent, whether players are carrying out volunteerism or philanthropy at home or aboard.
Multiple Endeavours
From humanitarian aid and building medical clinics to shining the light on climate crisis and social issues, FIFPRO aims to profile players who have carried out a diverse range of goodwill, charitable work and bringing about a more inclusive society.
Marshall Munetsi: "The more I run, the more we raise for underprivileged children in Zimbabwe"
Marshall Munetsi plays for Stade de Reims. The midfielder donates 10 percent of his earnings to his foundation, which helps provide an education for underprivileged children in Zimbabwe. His club introduced a clause in his contract that would see them donate a further €100 for every kilometre ran by Munetsi during play.
FIFPRO Merit Awards: Recognising the contributions of players to society
Lennart Thy: "I saved someone’s life with a small gesture"
German striker Lennart Thy was selected Player of the Match for a game in which he didn’t play in 2018, after saving the life of a leukaemia patient by donating stem cells. Thy currently plays for PEC Zwolle in the Dutch second-tier.
Ingrid Stenevik: "I want to use my time to help others"
Ingrid Stenevik is a 27-year-old Norwegian footballer who plays for SK Brann Kvinner (formerly part of Sandviken IF). The club formed the first women’s street team in Norway, aimed at offering those from challenging backgrounds the opportunity to train as part of a team. Ingrid was a pioneering figure in the initiative’s success.
