Salute To Stars Off The Pitch

Players and clubs who have gone the extra mile over the past year have been lauded for their contribution to their communities.

- Tom Blackett

Cardiff ’s Will Vaulks, Bristol Rovers’ Alex Rodman and Newport’s Matty Dolan were selected as the divisional winners of the 2021 PFA Players in the Community award.

The honour recognises the positive impact players can have off the pitch and is given to those who go beyond what would normally be expected, either due to the breadth of involvement or for the depth of support for one particular project.

The Bluebirds’ Welsh international midfielder Vaulks, 27, took the Championship accolade.

The EFL said: “His commitment to community activities was unparalleled in terms of self-motivated volunteering and passion.

“He has dedicated significant personal time to people in the community and is a strong advocate of the benefits of volunteering for both charitable and mental health reasons.”

Rovers winger Rodman, 34, took the plaudits in League One.

“He is extremely passionate about education and has taken on an ambassadorial role within the club to support current and prospective students of the club’s charity,” said the League.