The Russell Martin Foundation, a charity that uses football and education as a tool to engage and inspire young people, has been named as a finalist in the Football Business Awards 2023. The foundation has been shortlisted in the category of Best Football Community Scheme for its work in providing opportunities for disadvantaged and disabled young people to play and learn through football.

The Football Business Awards celebrate the best of the business of football, recognising and rewarding excellence and innovation across the industry. The awards are judged by a panel of experts from within the football industry, including former players, journalists, and business leaders.

Russell Martin, the former professional footballer who founded the Russell Martin Foundation in 2017, expressed his delight at the news. "We are thrilled to have been named as a finalist in the Football Business Awards," he said. "It is a fantastic recognition of the hard work and dedication of everyone involved with the foundation, from our staff and volunteers to the young people who take part in our programmes."

Martin went on to highlight the importance of using football and education as a tool for social change. "Football has the power to bring people together and to make a positive impact on society," he said. "At the RMF, we are committed to using the sport we love to help young people to achieve their potential and to build a brighter future for themselves and their communities."

The CEO of the Russell Martin Foundation, Alan Sanders, echoed Martin's sentiments. "We are incredibly proud to have been named as a finalist in the Football Business Awards," he said. "It is a testament to the passion and commitment of our team, who work tirelessly to make a difference and to be recognised nationally for this is a real achievement for everyone involved."

Sanders also emphasised the foundation's focus on inclusivity and accessibility. "At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to making football accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or ability," he said. "We believe that every young person deserves the chance to experience the joy of playing football and to benefit from the life skills and confidence that it can bring."

The winners of the Football Business Awards 2023 will be announced at a ceremony in London later this year. Whatever the outcome, the Russell Martin Foundation can be proud of the positive impact it is having on the lives of young people through football.

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