The Football League has announced the shortlists for the 2008 Football League Awards.
The Apprentice of the Year Awards celebrate the achievements of Apprentices and provide an opportunity to showcase young talent. The Awards recognise the nominee’s commitment, hard work and dedication to their Apprenticeship both on and off the field.
The 2008 nominees are:
Wickes Young Apprentice Award – Championship
- Anthony Acheampong (Cardiff City)
- Mark Beevers (Sheffield Wednesday)
- Mark Devonshire (Barnsley)
- Lee Hills (Crystal Palace)
- Joe Mattock (Leicester City)
- Tommy Smith (Ipswich Town)
Nivea for Men Apprentice Award – League One
- Alex Dyer (Northampton Town)
- Daniel Broadbent (Huddersfield Town)
- Thomas Schwarz (Walsall)
Nivea for Men Apprentice Award – League Two
- Daniel Hone (Lincoln City)
- Liam Kelly (MK Dons)
- Ryan Bennett (Grimsby Town)
The 2007 Football League Awards produced three very deserving winners who have all continued to make excellent football and educational progress.
Speaking to the Football League, Wickes Sports Sponsorship Manager Matt Holmes said,
“Wickes are very proud to support this award and its recognition of the best Coca-Cola Championship Apprentices – both on and off the pitch. Last year’s winner Chris Gunter and his recent achievements are a shining example to other players at this stage of their career in terms of what can be achieved.”
A judging panel made up of ex-Premiership and Republic of Ireland footballer Andy Townsend and representatives from the Football League, Wickes, The PFA and FourFourTwo Magazine will select the overall winner.
The winners will be announced at the third annual Football League Awards which will take place at the London Hilton, Park Lane on Sunday 2nd March 2008.