Every year, we recognise and celebrate Sported volunteers with the Vanessa Brown Awards. Now in its seventh year, we’re excited to share the winners of the 2021 awards and show how much of a difference they make to grassroots sports groups in the Sported network.

Our 273-strong volunteer team are situated across the UK and come with a wealth of professional experience and knowledge, dedicating their time, energy and passion to help groups. Their support allows many groups to grow, become more sustainable, gain funding, and more, helping them continue to support as many young people as they can in their local area through sport. 

The awards are in remembrance of a passionate and much-loved colleague at Sported, Vanessa Brown, whose infectious enthusiasm for community sport and volunteering make her a fitting individual to name these awards after.  

The winners were selected by a judging panel including Vanessa’s partner Rachel, Olympian Dave Moorcroft, the first Sported CEO Jo Stocks, and current trustee Louise Dier.

Congratulations to all of the winners and nominees. We want to thank all of our Sported volunteers whose support to group leaders means that almost half a million young people can experience the benefits of sport through grassroots community groups.