 An unexpected surprise for recognised volunteers
When volunteer equestrian coordinator for the Waikato region Jocelyn Charleston received her Lifetime Achievement Award it came as an unexpected surprise.
“It’s an outstanding occasion, I’ve been involved in equestrian since the 1960’s and to have a little recognition is a wonderful, surprising thing” Jocelyn said.
The SPARC Sport Volunteer Awards 2011 which was held on Wednesday night at the Don Rowlands Centre, Lake Karapiro celebrated local volunteers in grassroots sport. The volunteers were nominated by athletes, clubs, sporting organisations and schools with 30 finalists acknowledged.
Sponsors of the night included Sport Waikato, 92.2 More FM, Wattie’s and SPARC.
“SPARC acknowledges the huge contribution that volunteers make to community sport in New Zealand. We value these occasions in recognising the massive undertaking by our community” said SPARC community sport advisor Trafford Wilson.
The evening’s guest speaker, Olympic medal winning rower Nathan Twaddle had some wise words for volunteer coaches and administrators.
“Empower your athletes, challenge them hard. Empower them to make the right decisions and above all educate them to get the best out of themselves in and outside of the sporting arena” Nathan explained.
The other volunteer winners included Watties Student Sport Volunteer Award winner Harriet Fish for her contributions to coaching/refereeing netball and touch. The SPARC Sport Volunteer Award went to Te Awamutu Athletics Club’s Murray Green who commented on the time and effort given by volunteers.
“Volunteers give up a lot of family time and don’t always get the appreciation we deserve but tonight we do” said Murray.
Wattie's Student Sport Volunteer Award Winner: Harriet Fish
SPARC Sport Volunteer Award Winner: Murray Green
Lifetime Achievement Award Winner: Jocelyn Charleston
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