
National Grassroots Club of the Year 2025
Media release
Leicester Nirvana FC Named Grassroots Club of the Year National Winners
Celebrating on a National platform
Leicester Nirvana Football Club is proud to have been crowned the FA Grassroots Club of the Year – National Winners, a prestigious honour that recognises the club’s outstanding contribution to football and the local community.
The award celebrates the passion, dedication, and commitment of everyone who makes Leicester Nirvana more than just a football club – from coaches and volunteers to players, parents, and supporters.
Founded to provide young people in Leicester with a safe, supportive environment to play football, Leicester Nirvana has grown into a thriving community hub. The club champions inclusion, opportunity, and personal growth, ensuring that football is accessible to everyone, regardless of background or ability.
“This award isn’t just for the club – it’s for every person who has been part of our journey,” said Club Chairperson, Zak Hajat.
The FA Grassroots Awards celebrate the very best of the grassroots football community across the country. Winning the National title places Leicester Nirvana among the most respected and inspirational clubs in England.
“Grassroots football is about more than the game, it’s about community, belonging, and giving young people the belief that they can achieve on and off the pitch. We’re incredibly proud to represent Leicester on the national stage.” Club Chairperson, Zak Hajat.
Leicester Nirvana beat off over 1000 nominations to become grassroots club of the year, - which demonstrates the standard it must take to be crowned winners.
“From the volunteers who give up their evenings, to the parents who travel miles every weekend, to the players who put their hearts into every game – this recognition belongs to all of them.” - Club Trustee, Shehbaz Pathan
The Grassroots FA Awards were held at Wembley Stadium and hosted by Match of the Day’s Mark Chapman. The awards ceremony was once again illuminated by England legends like John Barnes, Rachel Yankey OBE, Paul Merson, Sue Smith, Rachel Brown-Finnis and Emile Heskey – not to mention Sir Geoff Hurst – presenting the 12 awards.
Leicester Nirvana's commitment to community engagement reaches far beyond just football. The club regularly organises events, workshops, and outreach programmes aimed at creating positive relationships within the local community.
The club understands that sports can be a powerful tool for personal development and strives to create pathways for young individuals to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Looking ahead, Leicester Nirvana aims to build on this success by expanding its community programmes and initiatives. Plans are already underway to introduce new sustainability projects and further enhance the facilities available to players and their families.
“Our vision is to create a lasting legacy that inspires future generations. We want to ensure that Leicester Nirvana remains a beacon of hope and opportunity for young people aspiring to succeed in football and in life.” Community Lead, Ivan Liburd