We are excited to announce that Pledgeball has been named the Grassroots Organisation of the Year at the BBC Green Sports Awards. This award, which celebrates the positive impact of athletes, former athletes, and organisations working to inspire change, recognises the incredible impact of Pledgeball and its journey – from a grassroots football tournament to the Champions League final.
Our journey began in Bristol with a grassroots tournament, followed by a launch with non-league club Whitehawk FC and then a first professional club launch with Championship-side Bristol City FC in April 2021. As a Bristol-based charity, our roots in the city have been integral to our growth and mission. Working closely with Bristol City ever since, we have seen firsthand how a local initiative can mobilise global change, making this recognition all the more meaningful.
Being nominated alongside inspiring organisations like Clean Water Alliance, Cricket for Climate, The Green Runners, and Surfers For Climate made the recognition even more special. Winning this award feels surreal and is a nod to the passion and dedication of the many volunteers and staff that make up the team at Pledgeball.
The BBC Green Sports Awards focus on promoting positive change to tackle climate change in the sports world, and Pledgeball has been leading the charge by rallying fellow fans and engaging clubs, organisations and governing bodies in taking action that prioritises what truly matters to us – a liveable planet that allows everyone to thrive. Last season, fans from over 180 clubs pledged through the Pledgeball platform, with thousands of fans joining the movement.
Katie Cross, CEO of Pledgeball, said, “This award recognises the hard work and dedication of our team, our volunteers, and the incredible sports organisations we collaborate with. Together, we’re proving that grassroots movements can create a significant impact in the fight against climate change. We’re excited to keep working with the sports community to bring about a radical shift to protect where we play.”
David Lockwood, Head of Sustainability for Sport at BBC Sports, added, “The Green Sports Awards celebrate the incredible efforts of individuals and organisations that are driving positive change within sports. Pledgeball’s commitment to sustainability and innovative approach to engaging sports fans is commendable. We are proud to recognise their achievements as Grassroots Organisation of the Year.”
We are eager to build on this success and continue fostering a sports community that prioritises sustainability. Together, we can create lasting change and ensure sport plays a leading role in tackling the climate crisis.
For more information about Pledgeball and our initiatives, please visit www.pledgeball.org.
