Sporting achievements are recognised at sports awards...
LOCAL sporting stars have been celebrated at this year’s Charnwood Sports Awards.
The awards ceremony, organised by Charnwood Borough Council honoured over 30 shortlisted individuals and groups at Burleigh Court, Loughborough on Monday, December 2,
Loughborough Badminton Club was crowned John Sutherington Club of the Year after it won all three Premier Divisions in ladies doubles, men’s doubles and mixed doubles for the first time in the club’s history.
The Joe Humphries Special Recognition award was given to Jesse Dufton, a visually impaired paraclimber who has continued to climb even though his sight has continued to deteriorate. Jesse relies entirely on feel and some directions from his climbing partner. The award recognises inspirational people who have made outstanding achievements in the face of adversity.
Jesse said: “I was surprised I’d even been nominated so to actually receive the Joe Humphries Special Recognition Award is a real honour.
“It’s been a lovely evening finding out about the fantastic sporting achievements across the borough and I’m really proud to be a part of it. Congratulations to everyone this evening.”
Other winners on the night included Laura Buddle, a coach at Loughborough Gymnastics Academy won Coach of the Year, Loughborough Lawn Tennis Club Ladies 1st were awarded Senior Team of the Year and Charnwood College Riders won Junior Team of the Year.
There was also a Judges Panel Special Recognition Award given to the Loughborough Foxes u12 football team and Molly Webb who sadly passed away earlier this year at the age of 25. Molly had been a member of the club since the age of 13 and was the manager of the under 12s team.
Runners-up included Pauline Young who was nominated for Best Community Sport/Physical Activity Project for helping to establish a walking netball group in Loughborough.
Pauline said: “I was delighted to find out I had been nominated for this year’s Sports Awards.
“Walking netball provides people who may not be able to do high impact sports with an opportunity to improve their fitness, build friendships and most importantly to have lots of fun.”
Julie Robinson, head of neighbourhood services at the Council, said: “The Charnwood Sports Awards are an opportunity to celebrate the fantastic sporting talent we have in the borough.
“It was an honour and a privilege to hear about the hard work of our athletes, sports clubs and the dedication of the volunteers and coaches.
“I’d like to congratulate all nominees and winners on their achievements and also say thanks to all of our sponsors of the awards.”
The categories recognised the achievements of junior and senior athletes, coaches, volunteers and individual projects.
This year’s event was sponsored by Sports Traider, Loughborough College, Team Charnwood, Hit the Street, Loughborough University, Fusion Lifestyle, Leicestershire and Rutland Sport, Active Charnwood Alliance, Idverde, Colton Packaging, Lux Technical and Kangaroo. • See more from the Charnwood Sports awards on page 22.