Honda Volunteer of the Year Awards

The Categories are :

Unsung Hero

A volunteer or group of volunteers who have gone above and beyond to create positive experiences.

The nominee has:

• Undertaken several key tasks to support the club/organisation and can always be relied upon to lend a hand, often behind the scenes (for example organising events, maintaining facilities, supporting administration)
• Has shown an open mindset and a willingness to adapt as rugby develops (for example enhancing social media, engaging new sponsors, introducing new processes or platforms)
• Shown a willingness to go above and beyond for the sake of the club/organisation and its members.

Game for All

An individual or a group of volunteers who have developed an inspiring offer to make the game more accessible and attract new audiences, or created a flexible and engaging offer to retain current players.

The nominee has:

• Inspired people from a range of backgrounds to play rugby, with an emphasis on those underrepresented within the sport
• Thought outside the box to remove barriers to make rugby accessible
• Developed playing opportunities to meet changing lifestyles and help recruit and retain players*
• Worked with partner organisations to broaden playing opportunities

*Examples of this could include but are not limited to T1 Rugby, Game On, flexibility of when games are played, initiatives to retain 14–18-year-olds or supporting players transitioning from age grade to adult rugby.

Connecting the Community

An individual or a group of volunteers who have strengthened the club/organisation’s presence within the local community, helping to establish the club/organisation as a central part of community life.

The nominee has:

• Helped the club have a strong presence in the community whether actively participating in community events or supporting local charities and initiatives
• Provided opportunities for people within the community to engage with the club on or off the field.
• Ensured that they provide a welcoming environment to all members of the community by providing suitable facilities and a friendly environment

For more information, visit the overview of categories. If you’re unsure which category your nominee fits, there is also the option to select ‘I’m not sure’.