🏆 Back-to-Back Champions! Shanghai Lions Win “Team of the Year” at That’s Shanghai Sports Awards 2011
Following up on our historic win in 2010, the Shanghai Lions roared once again — officially being crowned “Team of the Year” for 2011 at the That’s Shanghai Sports Awards hosted at The Camel Sports Bar.
This back-to-back recognition marked a defining chapter in our club’s journey — a tribute to the relentless spirit, results, and community that defines the Lions.
“We were voted best sports team of Shanghai for the second year in a row! A great reward, and 100% deserved. Don’t think anybody came close to what we achieved as a team!”
— Freek Boelen, Lions Manager
⚽ 2011 in Review: A Year Worth Remembering
The 2011 season saw the Lions continue to grow from a team into a true club, with solid performances across leagues, tournaments, and social events. We made our mark both on and off the pitch, and it didn’t go unnoticed.
We walked into The Camel not only as nominees, but as a community — and walked out winners once again.
“We need you guys to be aware of the team you are involved with, playing for! It’s just the beginning.”
— Charles Georg, Lions Co-founder
🧔 Special Mention: Freek Boelen, Personality of the Year Nominee
2011 also saw a special highlight for the club’s leader, Freek Boelen, who was nominated for Sports Personality of the Year. Though the title ultimately went to another, his nomination was a powerful tribute to his ongoing contribution to Shanghai football.
Freek’s involvement over the years:
- 🏆 7× SPL Champion
- 🏆 5× SPL Cup Winner
- 🏆 2× Summer 7s Titles
- 👑 SPL President since 2006
- 🧠 Organizer of multiple local tournaments, including Mini World Cup & Santa Cup
“Freek is a true football personality in Shanghai — a player, a coach, a leader, a community builder.”
🦁 The Legacy Continues
As Freek said best, “Now we want to win both the SPL and SIFL titles.” The award was a celebration — not a finish line. Our sights were already set on new challenges.
Big thanks to all who showed up, voted, played, supported, and celebrated. We are more than a team — we are the Lions.
