The search is on for Chichester District's sporting stars

This scheme recognises not only the outstanding sporting achievements of young sportsmen, sportswomen and teams across the sporting spectrum, but also the coaches and volunteers that work tirelessly 'behind the scenes' – the unsung heroes!

Since the first awards ceremony in 2000, the Awards have now celebrated the achievements of over 2,500 local people.

The awards, organised by Chichester District Council in partnership with the Chichester Observer and Chichester Priory Rotary Club, are presented in seven categories:

• Team of the Year
• Volunteer of the Year
• Coach of the Year
• Young Person's Commitment to Sport
• Outstanding Contribution to Sport
• Outstanding Sports Performance of the Year
• Youth Sport Achievement

Last years awards ceremony saw Chichester Priory Park U13 Girls Cricket Team crowned Team of the Year for their efforts in not only becoming West Sussex champions, but also overall Sussex champions. The Team went on to achieve further success in December when they were runners up in the Sussex Sports Awards Scheme.

Claire Wulff, nominated for a Youth Sport Coach Award in 2009, went on to win the Coach of the Year Award at the Observer Community Awards.

Cllr Nick Thomas, Portfolio Holder for Culture and Sport at Chichester District Council, says: "2009 was another an exceptional year for our local sports stars and teams. The Youth Sport Awards allow us to recognise and reward this individual excellence, team achievement and those coaches and volunteers whose hard work and dedication enables local sports teams and clubs to run. It is important to highlight the achievements of the brilliant people we have and encourage others to get involved in sport. If you know of any sporting stars, coaches or volunteers that deserve recognition, please make a nomination for the 2010 awards."

Deadline for entries for the 2010 Awards scheme is Wednesday 31 March 2010. Forms can be collected from the Observer or District Council offices, or downloaded from the District Council's website. They can also be obtained from the Sport and Physical Activity Development Officer at Chichester District Council.

Date:14 January 2010

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