Nominate someone special for the Mirror's Pride of Sport Awards 2017
The organisers are delighted to announce that nominations for The Mirror's Pride of Sport Awards, in partnership with TSB, are open. These amazing awards celebrate the phenomenal people who have contributed to sport at all levels, across all walks of life. Why not nominate someone you know- a disabled sports person, your club, volunteers or coach?
Nominations are open to find people who have gone the extra mile to help others, young or old, achieve their personal best and reach their goals. It could be a selfless volunteer or someone who’s triumphed against adversity.
Nominations for the awards, which are backed by Sport England, will close on 15 September. Famous faces from across the world of sport will be in attendance for a star studded ceremony hosted by Ben Shephard in London on 22 November.
Last year's winners include England’s Rugby Coach Eddie Jones for Coach of The Year, Team GB and Paralympics GB won Elite Team of The Year and Dame Kelly Holmes won the Lifetime Achievement award.
Awards were given to inspiring people including the amazing Denham Elvin, a cycling enthusiast who overcame homelessness and now facilitates his favourite sport on drug-riddled estates around the south coast. Also, the Flamingo Chicks, a club for disabled children to experience the magic of dance while also providing support for their parents and carers. Plus, equestrian Abdul Kareem Musa Adam who lost his entire family in Sudan and now lives in the UK and is battling his post-traumatic stress disorder through his love of horse riding.
Host Ben Shephard said:
“I’m absolutely delighted to be hosting the Mirror’s Pride of Sport Awards, in partnership with TSB, once again.
"These brilliant awards celebrate the unsung heroes of sport, from volunteers giving up their own time to run clubs to inspirational coaches and young people who have overcome awe-inspiring challenges just to make it to the start line.
“All those grassroots volunteers and competitors taking part for the love of the game rather than glory, are the true lifeblood of sport in Britain.
"They are out there making a difference in every community, and I can’t wait to meet this year’s winners."
Paul Pester, CEO of TSB, said:
“Last year TSB partnered with the Mirror on the Pride of Sport Awards for the first time, and what an amazing event it was. At TSB we are building a different kind of bank, one focused on supporting the communities it serves. That’s why we support Pride of Sport – because it recognises individuals and groups who use sport to help others thrive and bring communities together.”
Nomination categories
Do you know someone who deserves one of our awards? Here are the categories:
Young Sports Person
To recognise an outstanding individual who has performed beyond their years or proved their potential to become a world class sports star Britain can be proud of.
Team of the Year
To honour a grassroots team in any sport who have worked together to succeed beyond expectations, or had an impact outside the boundaries of sport.
Sporting Fundraiser
To recognise an individual or a group that have undertaken an outstanding charity challenge. Judges will consider the scale and ingenuity of the challenge as well as the amount raised.
Young Fundraiser
To recognise an individual or group under the age of 16 that has undertaken an outstanding charity challenge. Judges will consider the scale and ingenuity of the challenge as well as the amount raised.
TSB Community Partner
For an individual or a group of people who have worked together in partnership as a force for good in their local community, improving the lives of people around them through sport. This could be anything from supporting young people to help them thrive to bringing communities together to make a difference.
Young Achiever
To recognise a young person aged 16 or under who has overcome significant obstacles to take part in sport, inspiring others with their spirit and dedication.
Special Recognition
For inspirational people and groups that deserve recognition but may not fit into any any other category.
Coach of the Year
For a grassroots coach or manager who has led their team to notable success, or to perform above and beyond expectations.
Disabled Sports Person Award
For a disabled sports person who has achieved notable success in grassroots sport, or performed above and beyond expectations.