Like players, referees or coaches, football administrators play a key role in the development of football. In our vast continent, these faceless figures have been working tirelessly behind the curtains but it’s time to bring them on the stage and recognise their efforts.

Whether it is organising the talent-hunt programmes and nurturing the stars of tomorrow with a hope to give their country a spotlight in world football or hosting a major competition, it is the administrators who strive hard for its success.

In line with AFC's principle to award the top three achievers in their respective categories, the AFC Service Awards groupings also signify the number of years a particular recipient has spent in developing football in his/her country.

Those who have devoted 30 or more years to football development are given the AFC Gold Star while those who have rendered 20 and 10 years of service receive the AFC Silver Star and AFC Bronze Star respectively.