2021 NSW Community Sports Awards recognises contribution of volunteers

Sport NSW has announced the winners of the 2021 NSW Community Sports Awards recognising outstanding achievements and contributions to community sport in NSW over the past year which is largely carried out by a volunteer workforce.

The Awards night, conducted at Bankwest Stadium and hosted by NSW Minister for Sport, Natalie Ward, also celebrated 23 recipients of Distinguished Long Service Awards. These Awards honoured individuals across a broad range of sports who have given exceptional service to their sport over a period of decades.

Sport NSW Chairperson, Carolyn Campbell congratulated all winner on their wonderful commitment to sport in NSW and noted “COVID-19 has impacted our lives in so many areas over the past 12-15 months, and the role of community sport has been vital to restoring and upholding the physical and mental health of girls and boys, men and women of all ages during these challenging times.

“Sport has the magnetic capacity to draw people together from different cultures and backgrounds within local communities to enjoy active, healthy lifestyles.

“At the heart of community sport has been more than 500,000 selfless volunteers who give up their precious time to ensure sports is played throughout the year.”

Campbell added “It is fitting our Award recipients are recognised and honoured. It is because of their efforts that NSW remains the premier sports state in Australia.”

The Award category winners are:

Community Official of the Year:                                Gregory Smith (Rowing)

Young Official of the Year:                                         Mason Colwell (Touch Football)

Community Coach of the Year:                                 Bec Bulley (Netball), David Groom (Judo), Johanna Tarrant (co-winners)

Young Coach of the Year:                                          Drew Fryer (Athletics)

Community Sports Administrator of the Year:        Michelle Slack-Smith (Volleyball)

Volunteer Director of the Year:                                 Joe Dougall (Touch Football) and Kip Stavrou (joint winners)

Community Team of the Year:                                   Crusaders Youth League Men (Basketball)

Community Club of the Year:                                     Balmain Rowing Club and Northern Barbarians Rugby Club (joint winners)

Local Council of the Year:                                          Blacktown City Council

Community Event of the Year:                                   NSW Senior State Cup (Touch Football)