Tomáš Souček and Amber Tysiak have been presented with Players’ Project awards for their ongoing support of the Foundation throughout the 2024/25 season.
Both players have enjoyed successful campaigns in Claret and Blue on the pitch. The Hammers’ giant Czechia international has recorded nine Premier League goals and provided two assists, and was named the Czech Footballer of the Year for the fourth time. Indeed, he is just one strike away from matching his single-season high (ten), set in his first full season in 2020/21.
Tysiak, meanwhile, was a key asset for West Ham United women’s team as they recorded a home campaign for the history books, with only three sides leaving Chigwell Construction Stadium victorious throughout 2024/25. The 25-year-old, who was rewarded with a contract extension at the Club until the summer of 2028 in January, and her teammates chalked up the most home WSL points and wins in a single season in the Club’s history.
Away from the pitch, however, both players have been recognised for their outstanding contribution and engagement with local schools and other initiatives, bringing positivity and inspiration to young people across east London.
In his fifth year at the Club, Souček has taken part in a number of Foundation events, including visiting our Holiday Hammers Camps and meeting students on the University of East London’s Sports Coaching and Performance degree course. Tysiak, meanwhile, regularly volunteered on Monday evenings with This Girl's Ability, a Sister Club of West Ham United women's team, and created lasting memories for fans with life-limiting illnesses during the Newham Hospital Christmas visit.
The Players' Project awards stand as testaments to the players’ efforts in enhancing the lives of others through their involvement with the West Ham United Foundation - and both have been shining examples of true community champions.
Carrying out charitable acts is a clear passion for both of our Players’ Project award winners, and Souček was on hand to receive his prize from Foundation CEO Joseph Lyons following the players’ lap of honour at London Stadium on Sunday, after the final home game of the season against Nottingham Forest.
Reflecting on the recognition, he said: “I'm very proud to have received this award, and it means a lot to me because as a kid I always appreciated when a player or some big hero of mine did something for the kids, and I could spend time with them, and it was a massive motivation for me to work.
“Many people helped me along the way, and this is my way of giving a little bit back now that I am a professional [footballer].
“If there are ever any options to help, even with a signature or a photo or to go somewhere or do something, I'm happy to do it because when I can do something special for the kids, they can trust something because of me, and I can be their motivation or maybe even change their life; it gives me a lot of pride and happiness.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time being with the east London community and helping out in any way I can. It's always nice, especially with the kids, and it's great that people appreciate that we are coming and spending time with them, and we can see that with the smiles on their faces.
“East London makes me feel like I'm at home, and I’m proud to be part of an incredible Club and community. I know where the people come from, and I love these types of people, and I love the connection that I have with them.”
Tysiak, who was also crowned the PFA Community Champion for 2024/25, said: “I feel proud to be part of a Club that places so much importance on giving back.
“The work that the West Ham United Foundation does across the local community is truly inspiring - from supporting young people and promoting healthy lifestyles to creating inclusive opportunities for everyone.
“Whether it’s encouraging girls to dream big or simply connecting with people through football, it all makes a difference. We wear the badge for more than just what we do on the pitch, and it means a lot to be recognised for doing that.”
