We're searching for Chichester district's young sporting stars

The search has begun for local sports stars, teams, coaches and volunteers who deserve recognition at the 2011 Chichester District Youth Sport Achievement Awards.

The scheme recognises the outstanding achievements of young sportsmen, women, and teams across the sporting spectrum, plus the work of the coaches and volunteers who work tirelessly behind the scenes in sport.

The awards, organised by Chichester District Council in partnership with the 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 year’s awards ceremony saw Yasmin Cooper claim the main award of the evening, the Dennis Polhill Award for individual youth sport achievement.

Yasmin represented her country in the children’s British ski team, participating in races in Slovenia and Italy. She finished every course of slalom and giant slalom and was the highest-ranking Great Britain girl in her age group.

Since the awards, Yasmin has been crowned the female winner of the Hemel Hempstead ski championships, and has also been selected for the 2010-11 GB children’s team.

Another success story has been young archer Jamie Cole. Winner of the Outstanding Sports Performance of the Year Award in 2010, he went on to win the Sportsperson of the Year award at the recent Observer Community Awards.

The 2011 Chichester District Youth Sport Achievement Awards will be held at Westgate Leisure on Saturday, June 11.

Cllr Nick Thomas, portfolio holder for culture and sport at Chichester District Council, said: “2010 was another exceptional year for our local sport stars and sports teams.

“The Youth Sport Awards allow us to reward the hard work and dedication not only of those individuals performing at an elite level, but those who have perhaps just taken up a new sport.

“From the international fencer who has just won gold at the Commonwealth Games, to the six-year-old child picking up a rugby ball for the first time, it is important to highlight the achievements of local youngsters and encourage others to get involved in sport.

“If you know of any sporting stars or coaches/volunteers that deserve recognition, please make a nomination for the 2011 awards.”

Deadline for entries is Friday, April 1. Forms can be collected from the district council or the Observer office in Eastgate Square, or downloaded from the council’s website at www.chichester.gov.uk.

They can also be obtained from Ben Polhill, sport and physical activity development officer at Chichester District Council, on 01243 534857 or by email at [email protected]