Vic Akers, former Arsenal Ladies Manager, now Arsenal Ladies General Manager, has been named on the Queen’s New Year’s Honours list. During Vic’s 22 years in charge of Arsenal Ladies, the team won a staggering 32 trophies and became the first British side to ever lift the European Cup in 2007.
The 63-year-old was a key player involved in the inception of Arsenal Ladies, founding the team in 1987 and as well as still being involved with the Gunners Ladies, Akers is also the Gunners first team Kit Manager.
Vic said: “I’m very honoured to have the OBE bestowed upon me. I had an inkling about it two months ago when I received a letter saying that it may happen and asking if I would be willing to accept. My family has always been supporters of the Royal Family so it’s a major honour for me to receive any award from them.
“There are many people involved in this award coming about, none more so than all the girls that have played for the Club since day one in 1987 right the way through to the present day.”
Arsenal’s CEO Ivan Gazidis said: “Vic pioneered Arsenal Ladies long before women’s football was an established part of the social landscape and, in pushing the programme to unprecedented levels of success, he has made an incalculable contribution – not only to Arsenal – but to the cause of women’s sport. Through his personal initiative and selfless effort and commitment, Vic has had a massive positive impact on the modern game.
“We thank him and are grateful that he has been deservedly recognised in this way.”
You must log in to post a comment.