U’s midfielder Will Vaulks has been listed among the nominees for this year’s FIFPRO Player Voice Award.

The global honour recognises players whose efforts off the pitch have led to meaningful impact. This year’s winners will be announced at the FIFPRO Merit Awards on Tuesday, 18 November.

Vaulks’ nomination acknowledges his ongoing work in suicide prevention and mental health awareness.

Past honourees include Eberechi Eze, Lotte Wubben-Moy and Eleonora Goldoni.

Tim Williams, CEO of Oxford United, told the Oxford Mail: “Will’s leadership on this issue has been outstanding.

“He’s using his voice to tackle one of the most important conversations in society, and we’re incredibly proud of the difference he’s making on and off the pitch.

“His passion and authenticity are driving real, tangible change at our club and across the wider community.

“We wish Will all the best at the Merit Awards and congratulate him for his continued commitment to supporting others.”

Vaulks is an ambassador for Baton of Hope – the UK’s largest-ever suicide prevention initiative – and leads Oxford United’s Can We Talk? programme, the Club’s mental health and suicide prevention campaign launched in 2024. The initiative delivers suicide prevention and mental health workshops for supporters and the wider community.

His passion for championing mental health initiatives stems from personal tragedy, having lost both of his grandfathers to suicide.

He said: “I lost both my grandads to suicide when I was younger. I never spoke about it until a few years ago, and now I feel really passionate about suicide prevention.”

Speaking about the role Football Clubs can play in addressing urgent social issues, Vaulks continued: “Football Clubs are the most important thing in their towns and cities.

“They have such a responsibility in the community, and with that, make such an impact on the local people. They provide jobs and help in so many areas, and do a lot of work to tackle issues that are so important.

“As players, we have a responsibility to dedicate this time to society as well and have a duty to be good role models.”

Oxford United’s Will Vaulks nominated for FIFPRO Player Voice Award

Oxford United’s Will Vaulks nominated for FIFPRO Player Voice Award