England captain Leah Williamson is one of four Lionesses who have been recognised in King Charles’ New Year Honours list for 2023.
FAWSL Full-Time were informed of the news via a media update from The Football Association this evening.
On the back of England’s UEFA Women’s EURO 2022 success over the summer, the first major trophy to be won by the Lionesses, it has been revealed that captain Williamson will receive an OBE. There will also be MBEs awarded to UEFA Women’s EURO 2022 top scorer Beth Mead, full-back Lucy Bronze and retired forward Ellen White.
It has also been reported that head coach Sarina Wiegman has been granted an honorary CBE as recognition for her excellent work in transforming the Lionesses from underachievers to champions of Europe and one of the world’s very best football teams.
Speaking after being granted her OBE, England captain Williamson said “It was an honour to be a part of an incredible group of athletes and women and to share the successes of 2022 with them. Standing on the shoulders of those that came before us to inspire the millions that will follow.”
Commenting on her honorary CBE, England boss Wiegman said “I feel very privileged and humbled to have been given such a prestigious honour and would like to dedicate it to the players, the support team and others within The FA who have worked tirelessly for our shared success.
“As I reflect upon this, I would like to thank the fans for the warmth they have shown to me since I joined in 2021, I feel very proud to represent them as England’s head coach.
“I would also like to share my congratulations to Leah, Beth, Ellen and Lucy. Their recognition is a reflection of a brilliant 12 months for the whole squad and the excellent work they all do on and off of the pitch.
“It’s been a wonderful year and as we look ahead to 2023, we hope we can continue to make the country proud.”
In other news, Arsenal pair Jen Beattie and Kim Little are to receive MBEs for their services to football while Chelsea’s Sophie Ingle has been granted an OBE.
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