LOCAL people are this week being encouraged to nominate their sporting heroes with the launch of the Sports Awards 2015/16, a special event acknowledging the efforts of volunteers across the district who have made an outstanding contribution to sport.
The event is being organised by Derry City and Strabane District Council in association with the Derry City and Strabane District Sports Forum, and will celebrate the work of individuals, teams and clubs across the local Council area.
Sports fans can make nominations in 15 different award categories which the Sports Forum feel reflect all areas of the voluntary effort.
Launching the event, Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Councillor Elisha McCallion, said: “As well as highlighting the tremendous achievements gained, we also wish to recognise the unsung heroes of the community and sport sectors, those volunteers who give countless unpaid hours for the good of others.
“I want to encourage people to get voting to ensure these individuals get the recognition they deserve for their fantastic work.”
The awards ceremony will be held on Thursday 12th May 2016 in the Everglades Hotel, with voting closing on Wednesday 27th April at 4pm.
Chairman of the newly established Derry City and Strabane Sports Forum, Seamus McGilloway, said: “Amongst those new award categories we have selected a ‘Hall of Fame’, which looks to recognise the achievements of past greats who have achieved success in their sport.
“This is a great opportunity to recognise the sporting heroes who have inspired new generations of local talent.”
Council is now inviting nominations from organisations, community groups, sports clubs, schools, youth clubs and individuals for those have made a difference in the local sporting arena.
If you are aware of someone who deserves recognition for their efforts throughout the past year, nomination forms are available from the Health and Community Directorate, Derry City and Strabane District Council Offices, or alternatively you can download the nomination form from the Council’s website www.derrystrabane.com/sportsawards
