Footballer Robbie Hughes has been recognised for his brave determination in risking his life to play the sport he loves.
Former Sutton United and Croydon Athletic Robbie Hughes suffered a brain injury when his head was brutally stamped in the attack last year.
Mr Hughes, 29, who was just about to sign for Bromley FC at the time, was later told by doctors he would never play football again.
In July he was given permission to return to competitive football on the condition that he wears a protective headguard and accepts responsibility for any potentially fatal knocks to his skull.
Mr Hughes, of Wallington, who can hardly recall any of his life between the ages of 20 and 27, now plays for Cray Wanderers FC based in Bromley and dreams of setting up his own football academy.
This week he was awarded for his bravery with a Sporting Champion of the Year award at the Croydon Guardian’s Croydon Champions gala evening.
Over 200 people attended the event which seeks to reward the selfless heroes who work hard to make the area a better place to live in.
Speaking on behalf of her son, Margaret Hughes, said: “Robbie really enjoyed the night, he did not stop looking at his award.
“He could not believe that people would nominate him as a victim of crime or for someone who has been heroic. He was honoured by it.”
The evening was hosted by soul sensation Audley Anderson who spoke about his life after reality TV show Fame Academy and his work as a mentor to young people in London.
He described all the nominees as true champions.
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