DO you know, train with, or coach an outstanding high-level local athlete?<\/p>\n
The Ballarat Sportsmen\u2019s Club is seeking nominations for their annual Sportsperson of the Year Awards, which will see an impressive, respected elite performer over the age of 18 receive the top honour.<\/p>\n
Nominations will also be accepted and reviewed for four other categories, including the Wunhym Trophy for Junior Sportsperson of the Year.<\/p>\n
BSC president Bruce Tweedale said the traditional Sportsperson of the Year gala awards evening will be held at the Ballarat Golf Club on Wednesday, 9 February from 6pm, and it\u2019s an opportunity to celebrate excellence.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s fantastic to be able to recognise athletic people, coaching staff, and volunteers,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe will have David Parkin OAM, former VFL and AFL coach, as our special guest speaker.\u201d<\/p>\n
Any young, up-and-coming local athlete aged 17 or younger, and with big aspirations for their sporting career, is eligible for the Wunhym Trophy.<\/p>\n
The MacKenzie\/Valpied Award is always presented to a someone who passionately and selflessly gives their time to sport behind the scenes, the Hollioake Medallion celebrates individual or team excellence, while the Widmer Award recognises a coach, trainer or mentor who promotes participation in sport and enriches the athletic arena in Ballarat.<\/p>\n
Previous gala presentation guest speakers have included Kieren Perkins OAM, Leigh Matthews, Kerry O’Keeffe, Melinda Gainsford-Taylor, Alastair Clarkson, and Steven Bradbury OAM.<\/p>\n
The Ballarat Sportsmen\u2019s Club has been operational for over 60 years, and currently supports groups including the Federation University WestVic Academy of Sport and the Ballarat Sports Foundation through grants.<\/p>\n