Honda Volunteer of the Year Awards recognise rugby heroes
The 2024 Honda Volunteer of the Year Awards, held at Allianz Stadium, celebrated the outstanding contributions of volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to ensuring that the rugby community thrives.
More than 2,000 volunteers were nominated for the awards, showcasing their incredible impact on clubs and communities.
From these, 46 local winners were invited to The Home of England Rugby for an awards ceremony compered by Alex Payne. The winners across the four categories were:
- Unsung Hero: Moira Bowden, Hartlepool Rovers F.C
As Chair, Moira has overseen an increase in junior numbers and built a committee reflecting all club members. She has put the club at the heart of the community and overseen the clubhouse development, all of which has contributed to the development of the club.
- Game for All: Ellen Collison, West Norfolk RUFC
Honoured for her passion and commitment to growing women’s and girls’ rugby, Ellen spearheaded the increase of the youth girls’ section through expanding the coaching team, hosting successful Pitch up and Play events and rugby taster sessions in local secondary schools, and fundraising for bespoke kit.
- Connecting the Community: Paul Milham & Derek Spence, Aylesbury RFC
Celebrated for bringing people together through rugby and putting the club at the heart of the community, Paul and Derek have driven the completion of a clubhouse refurbishment, which has enabled the club to support more than 50 community events last season.
- Game Changer: John Pope, Washington RFC
Awarded for his forward-thinking initiatives that have made a significant impact on the future of the club, John has been the driving force behind several projects including improving data, leading the Friday Night Games initiative, introducing Back to Rugby, developing Touch Tuesdays and securing grants.
Rob Udwin, President of the RFU, said: “Volunteers are the heart of rugby in England. Without their dedication and passion, our clubs would not thrive as they do. The Honda Volunteer of the Year Awards allows us to recognise and celebrate these unsung heroes who contribute so much to the game. My heartfelt thanks go out to all of the volunteers who make our sport so special.”
Honda UK are proud sponsors of the Volunteer Recognition Programme. Rebecca Adamson, Head of UK Automobile, Honda, said: “At Honda, we believe in the power of dreams and the importance of giving back. The Honda Volunteer Recognition Programme allows us to shine a light on those who embody these values in the rugby community. We are honoured to support the volunteers who ensure that rugby continues to be a game for everyone, and we are inspired by their unwavering commitment.”
