Brentford FC Community Sports Trust coach Ahmed Mettioui has been announced as October’s winner of the Barclays Community Icon of the Month award.

The new award from the Premier League for the 2025/26 season celebrates individuals who have made a meaningful impact through Premier League-funded programmes.

At the start of the season, clubs were invited to nominate standout volunteers or participants for their positive contributions, and each month, one winner will be spotlighted through a short video that brings their inspiring story to life.

A Community Servant

Ahmed began working for Brentford Football in the Community over 25 years ago. During that time, he has contributed across numerous School Sport, Football Development and Communities Engagement programmes, including Premier League Kicks and Premier League Primary Stars – making a difference to thousands of children and young people along the way.

From Morocco to Brentford

Before joining the Trust as coach Ahmed has previously played international football for Morocco 1990’s and several English teams including Crewe Alexandra.

An inspirational coach to many, Ahmed has always remained humble, committed and passionate to improve and develop Trust participants. A champion for inclusion, he has worked at all levels of the Trust’s Football Development programme from Foundation to Elite and approaches every session in a professional way. The most important aspect is Ahmed’s calm personality which helps to build confidence and rapport with his students.

Patient and Kind

During his time coaching in the community Ahmed has made a positive impact on thousands of children, one of those is 8-year-old Evie from Chase Bridge Primary School. A sport-loving girl, with some learning difficulties, Evie has often become shy, overwhelmed and frozen when it comes to taking part in sports and ad activities.

Describing Ahmed’s impact, Evie’s mum Jo commented, “There has been a smile on Evie’s face and a glow inside her since she had Coach Ahmed take over football.

“He’s always encouraging her and she’s developed so quickly this term, she is like a different girl. Having someone who sees potential and where someone needs to improve on an individual basis is a special thing.”

Speaking about Ahmed’s impact Evie said, “I love Coach because he always helps me in PE and football. He is patient and kind and built my confidence in football.

“I am shy and he always makes sure I have a go and my turn against louder players. I was starting to worry about football club at school, but now that he coaches I can’t wait each week. He never loses his temper and is always positive. I love him and he’s my favourite coach because he is fun and makes me feel safe and I respect his experience and that he can really teach me different sports so well so that I can just get better and better.”

Proudest Moment Of My Life

On receiving the Barclays Community Icon of the Month award, Ahmed said, “I never thought I would be doing what I do now as a coach. It is a motivation for me to wake up in the morning and come into schools and give something back to the kids – especially helping those that are struggling with confidence and helping them to enjoy what they do.

“I wasn’t expecting this at all. To be in another country and recognised is incredible. This is the proudest moment of my life.”