Treble-winning Blues chief says OBE for Chelsea’s successes on the pitch came as a ‘huge shock’

Emma Hayes described her journey with Chelsea as an ‘unbelievable ride’ after being awarded an OBE for her services to football.

The Kingsmeadow boss was among a number of sports figures included in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours list.

PA

Emma Hayes’ OBE comes following Chelsea winning a domestic treble in 2021[/caption]

The gong for the Blues manager comes five years on from her being made an MBE.

And it caps a trophy-winning year for Hayes whose team sealed a domestic treble in December after their 3-0 triumph over Arsenal in the delayed Women’s FA Cup final.

The Chelsea chief, 44, said: “It was a huge shock to hear I had been awarded an OBE.

“It’s been an unbelievable ride so far, transforming from an amateur outfit to one of the top five clubs in Europe and I hope we’ve helped to pave the way for future generations to come.

“I couldn’t have done it without the support, and I will be forever grateful to each and every one of them.

“It’s an unbelievable honour for me and my family and a privilege I take very seriously.

“I would like to thank everyone who has worked with me across my career.

“I am fortunate and extremely lucky to have represented a fantastic football club and an amazing group of people over these past ten years.”

Hayes’ OBE came in a year that saw Chelsea claim their fourth WSL crown and a second Conti Cup in addition to their third FA Cup.

And the club reached their first-ever Champions League final before being beaten by 4-0 Catalan giants Barcelona.

The Blues also went on a 33-game unbeaten run in the WSL breaking the previous record set by Manchester City in 2017 of 32 matches without a loss.

Their run, which was ended by a home loss to Brighton, saw Hayes named as Barclays WSL Manager of the Season in May.

PA:Empics Sport

Former Lionesses captain Sheila Parker was honoured for her services to football[/caption]

And this came two months before the Camden-born coach, who took charge of Chelsea in 2012, signed a new deal to extend her reign.

Other football figures honoured include Sheila Parker who skippered England Women’s team in their official match in 1972.

The former Preston centre-back, 74, who led the team to a 3-2 win against Scotland that year, has been made an MBE for her services to football and charities.

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