Minerva teaching assistant honoured with prestigious football award

Minerva Primary Academy teaching assistant Naomi Reid has been recognised on the Football Black List, an annual awards initiative supported by the Football Association (FA).

The Football Black List celebrates and highlights the achievements of Black individuals across the UK within the football industry, recognising their positive impact both on and off the pitch.

From an initial list of 15 nominees, a panel of judges selected just six outstanding individuals –  including Naomi – for their exceptional contributions to the sport.

Naomi received her award for her outstanding work across Bristol and the South West of England, where she has made a significant impact within the local football community.

Her dedication to promoting inclusion, participation, and community engagement in football has earned her the respect and admiration of many.

And Naomi was not the only person with CLF links to be celebrated on this year’s list. Niya Kiwanuka, who studied at City Academy Bristol, became one of the Football Black List’s youngest ever award winners.

The 17-year-old was celebrated for helping to launch The Wildcats team at Bristol Central, and for coaching their under-11 side. The awards citation credited Nyah with ‘creating space for the next generation of girls in football’.

On winning the award Naomi said: “This is great recognition, especially during Black History Month.

“I am deeply grateful for this incredible award which I hope I can be a role model and inspire the next generation of female coaches in football in Bristol and southwest area.”