James Ross, Manawatu's 2009 General and Regional Volunteer Coach of the Year, is asking the community to nominate their sports volunteers for the 2010 Grassroots Sports Awards.
Organised by Sport Manawatu, the Grassroots Sports Awards will be held on October 1 this year. Nominations for volunteer coaches close on September 8.
"Just to be nominated was mind-blowing and very humbling. It really gave me a sense of recognition for what I do and let me know that I'm doing a really good job." says Mr Ross. As such, he encourages the community to get involved and say 'thanks' to hard working volunteers.
James has been coaching from a young age and over the last three years has had significant success in establishing and coaching Water Polo at Palmerston North Boys' High School (where he works as a maths teacher). Teams he coaches have won national titles with some players being named in national squads and receiving higher honours.
Mr Ross believes receiving a nomination is a huge achievement and will be nominating other coaches himself. He found the awards evening a great occasion for giving recognition to those that make sports at grassroots level available.
"It is important to have a good base at the grassroots level in order for players to be able to develop their sporting, social and life skills - which are all very beneficial to them as they mature in life," says Mr Ross.
This year award winners will receive a generous supply of Watties products, coaching apparel from SPARC, and one regional winner receives a SPARC coach development opportunity.
To nominate a coach, club or volunteer online visit sportmanawatu.org.nz/grassroots or pick up a nomination form from the Sport Manawatu office at 50 Queen Street, Palmerston North.
