Nominations are now being received for two series of awards in the sport and physical activity sector.
The ukactive Awards will celebrate the best of the physical activity sector following a year of unparalleled disruption, while UK Coaching will celebrate and reward the coaches who have continued to keep people active, and delivered sport and physical activity sessions throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.
Through its 'UK Coaching Hero 2021' awards, the public is being encouraged to nominate coaches who implemented great coaching ideas and have made positive contributions to people’s mental and physical wellbeing over the last 12 months. Nominations are open for the awards, which are supported by Coach Core and Dallaglio Rugby Works, until May 17th.
INNOVATIVE
Emma Atkins, Director of Coaching for UK Coaching, said: “There has been an immense strain on the physical and mental health of the nation, with winter months and financial constraints playing a huge part. Yet, throughout the pandemic, coaches have found innovative, safe and legal ways to deliver sport and physical activity sessions and it is not an exaggeration to state that they have been a constant source of hope for many people during these isolating times.
“Coaching Hero is our opportunity to give back to the coaches that have enriched our lives in lockdown – when we needed them most.”
Originally set to take place last year, UK Coaching decided to extend its awards initiative into 2021. Entries submitted during the first nomination period in 2020 have been received and will be included in the shortlisting process.
During this year’s UK Coaching Week from June 7th to 13th, the public will be able to vote for their favourite coach from a shortlist of finalists. The winners will be announced at a ceremony in September. Read more here.
Meanwhile the ukactive Awards, in partnership with Active IQ, will see judging recommence for entries made in 2020, following the postponement of the awards due the pandemic last year.
Three categories have re-opened for new entries and two new Covid-19-related awards have also been announced to recognise the efforts of the past year: ‘Delivering Business Continuity and Success during Covid-19’ and ‘Developing and Supporting Communities during Covid-19’.
RESILIENCE
Alongside the new awards, the three categories that will be re-opened for submissions are: Regional & National Club/Centre of the Year, the Physical Activity Hero Award, and the Outstanding Leadership Award.
Huw Edwards, CEO of ukactive, said: “There has never been a more important time to recognise the resilience, innovation and unity within our sector, following a year of continued disruption and challenges caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We look forward to celebrating all of the nominees and announcing the winners at our (online) ceremony in August.”
Entries are now open for five awards, and must be submitted before 5pm on Friday 7th May 2021. To apply for the ukactive Awards 2021 and to read the Entry Guide, click here.
