LJMU’s Football Exchange given spotlight at football industry awards
Members from LJMU’s world-class Football Exchange shared their vision and insights on science and football research with their peers as part of the 50th anniversary celebrations of the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) Awards.
The awards ceremony was held at the iconic Lowry Theatre in Manchester on Tuesday 29 August, bringing together football's brightest stars, enthusiasts and industry professionals.
One of the notable highlights of the evening was the launch of a commemorative book ‘50 Years of the PFA Awards’ that features the work of the Football Exchange at LJMU and how it brings the benefits of world-class scientific research and academia to the professional football industry.
Dr Kevin Enright, representing LJMU at the event, expressed his pride in the Football Exchange's participation: “Our involvement in the commemorative book underscores our deep commitment to the football industry and our dedication to fostering innovation and collaboration between academia and the sporting world.”
Dr Martin Littlewood, Head of the Football Exchange, commented: “Our participation in this prestigious event provided the opportunity to showcase the historical and current expertise and reach of the FEx within the football industry. Our vision remains clear, to be a global lead in science and football. We are committed to supporting the world of football through world class research that impacts and transforms professional practice.”
PFA Awards and commemorative book
The awards ceremony itself saw Erling Haaland, the prolific talent, adding yet another accolade to his impressive collection by clinching the coveted Professional Footballers’ Association Player of the Year award for the 2022/23 season. Meanwhile, England and Aston Villa star Rachel Daly was crowned the women's Player of the Year, further highlighting the evening's celebration of excellence in football.
‘50 Years of the PFA Awards’ is authored by football writer Harry Harris, a two-time recipient of the British Sports Journalist of the Year award and published in partnership with St James’s House Publishing Company.
It provides an in-depth look at the evolution of English football over the past five decades. Through exclusive interviews with some of the sport's greatest names, both past and present, it underscores the enduring impact of the PFA's work.
