‘Unsung hero’ celebrated for her work in women’s football in Sussex

The founder of an older women’s football club in Sussex has been recognised for her work.

Carol Bates BEM won the Unsung Hero award at the Sussex Sport & Physical Activity Awards 2025.

Described as “the lifeblood of women’s recreational football in Sussex”, Carol founded and was the driving force behind Crawley Old Girls (COGs).

In the nomination, it said that Carol had “exemplified the spirit of volunteerism, giving countless hours of her time without reward to create opportunities for women to play, connect, and thrive. 

“Her unwavering dedication has transformed lives, built communities, and inspired a national movement, all driven by her passion to enable others to move, improve their health, and find joy in physical activity.”

Carol said after her win: “I’d like to thank Active Sussex for the wonderful, inspiring evening at the Sussex Sport and Physical Activity Awards, where there were so many inspiring stories.  

“Hearing about all the work and projects that have been delivered in Sussex, I was extremely humbled to receive the Unsung Hero Award.  

“There are so many people giving their time to get Sussex moving and to receive this award in the 10th anniversary year of both the Crawley Old Girls (COGS) and the This Girl Can campaign made it even more special.  

“It’s so important that we get “older” women active and all the women who come to COGS prove that it’s possible. I wouldn’t have won this award without them.  

“Thank you, Active Sussex and here’s to the next 10 years!”

Carol’s journey began after decades on the sidelines watching her father, and later her sons, play.

In 2015, she saw a post from Crawley Town Community Foundation promoting girls’ football, and when told the session was capped at 25, she suggested creating a session for older women. 

Working with the Foundation and the EFL Trust, she secured funding for a ten-week pilot. 

Ten women attended the first session, and from that moment, COGs was born.

Since then, Carol has dedicated herself entirely voluntarily to growing and sustaining COGs. 

She plans and leads weekly sessions, organises festivals, mentors new coaches, manages communications, and supports events for women of all ages, including walking football for over-65s. 

Her commitment fosters an inclusive, welcoming, and positive environment where women feel confident to participate regardless of ability, age, or experience. 

Through her tireless efforts, COGs has improved physical health, mental wellbeing, and social connection for hundreds of women in Crawley, enabling them to move more, gain confidence, and build lasting friendships.

In 2022, she organised #COGSEUROFEST, bringing 400 women aged 30+ together from across the UK for a day of football, friendship, and empowerment. 

She continues to mentor new leaders, advocate for women’s recreational football nationally, and ensure that every participant has a safe, supportive, and enjoyable experience.

In the nomination, it said: “Carol’s empathy, energy, and generosity define her as an unsung hero.

“Through decades of voluntary leadership, she has enriched the lives of others, broken down barriers, and fostered a culture where inclusion, movement, and wellbeing go hand in hand. 

“Her legacy is measured not by accolades, but by the countless women she has empowered to play, connect, and thrive.”

 

You can read about the other winners here:

Former boxing champion is praised for his impactful work in Sussex