Bristol City WFC PFA BSM Fans' Women Player of the Month
Bristol Street Motors presented the first PFA Bristol Street Motors Fans’ Women Player of the Month Awards to Bristol City WFC goalkeeper, Sophie Baggaley.
This marks the first time in the PFA’s 111-year history, that the players’ union has held a monthly award for female footballers. It follows the success of the PFA Bristol Street Motors Fans’ Player of the Month Awards, which recognise the best male footballers across the country’s top four divisions each month.
Sophie received 50% of the vote for September, with Birmingham City’s Meaghan Sargeant taking second place. Sophie has shown strong performances, keeping two clean sheets in four games, and helping her team take points against Man City and champions, Chelsea.
Paul Pritchard and Mark Price from Bristol Street Motors Bristol Hyundai, presented Sophie with the inaugural award at the Ashton Gate Stadium in Bristol.
Sophie said: “I started playing football in the playground with the boys at school a long time ago and it went from there. I didn’t plan to be a footballer, but it is a dream come true.
“I am especially honoured to receive the PFA Bristol Street Motors Fans’ Women Player of the Month Awards, as the award is voted for by the fans who turn up to watch and support us. It is great to be recognised by them as a winner.”
Paul Pritchard said: “I think it is fantastic to support women’s football with this award. A few weeks ago, Mark and I attended a Bristol City WFC match, and they have excellent facilities. I’m used to attending premier league matches but these facilities were even better!
“It’s great that women’s football is gaining momentum and being represented more frequently in the British media. It is a spectacular achievement and a very exciting time for female participants.”
Mark Price added: “This is a brilliant award to support women’s sport. Women's football is becoming more prominent and I am very pleased that the first winner is from Bristol. Congratulations Sophie!”