Brentford head coach Thomas Frank presented Charlie Rowley as the club’s Community Captain prior to the Bees’ match against Tottenham Hotspur last weekend.
The award was in recognition of Charlie’s continued willingness to make a positive impact across Brentford and the local community through his involvement with the Brentford FC Community Sports Trust.
In addition to his work with the Trust, Charlie is also a valued member of the Brentford Penguins, a football team for young people with Down’s Syndrome, founded by former Bees player Allan Cockram.
What is More than a game?
Across the first two weeks of February football clubs up and down the country will be celebrating More than a game, which highlights the positive impact of Premier League investment into communities and all levels of football.
The Premier League Community Captain accolade is awarded each season to individuals who go above and beyond in their work within community initiatives.
Charlie receives his Community Captain award
❤️ “A remarkable individual who embodies the spirit of community work and shows willingness to make a positive impact in our local community”
To celebrate the #PLMorethanagame campaign, Thomas Frank recently presented participant Charlie Rowley with our Community Captain Award pic.twitter.com/nBj4eBxJCn
— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) February 8, 2025
Role model to others
Charlie is a dedicated participant at Brentford FC Community Sports Trust’s weekly Pan-Disability community football sessions which are funded by the Premier League. During these sessions individuals with a range of abilities come together to enjoy the game.
Through his consistent attendance over the last two years, Charlie has become a valued team member, showcasing not only his football skills but also his ability to support and encourage those around him.
His passion and positive attitude make him a role model to others in the sessions.
Charlie’s dedication to football extends beyond playing, and he has a strong aspiration to pursue a career in coaching.
Recognising this ambition, the Trust is committed to supporting Charlie in achieving his FA Coaching Qualifications and he is now working closely with Trust staff across various disability programmes, gaining practical coaching experience and further developing his skills.
Remarkable individual
Craig Peters, Disability Manager at Brentford FC Community Sports Trust said: “Charlie is a remarkable individual who embodies the spirit of community work and shows the willingness to make a positive impact in our local community.
“His passion and positivity at all our sessions is fantastic to see and Charlie has shown excellent leadership qualities as he has grown in confidence.
“The sessions he attends with the Trust and Brentford Penguins has given him a sense of belonging and community which has enabled him to flourish and is really special to witness.”
Great ambassador
Cockram (pictured below) said: “The first time I met Charlie was seven years ago. He was just a little kid who didn’t really have an understanding of group mentality and he was very much an individual. It’s been a privilege to see him blossom over the years and become a friend of mine.
“Charlie is a great ambassador for Down’s syndrome, a great ambassador for Brentford FC Community Sports Trust and the football club, and certainly a great ambassador for the Brentford Penguins. I’m proud to have that friendship with him and the opportunity to work with him.”