Volunteer of the Year

THE FINALISTS

We have now announced all of the finalists for the Volunteer of the Year Award at the YO1 Radio Sports Awards. This award celebrates the incredible individuals who give up their time, energy and passion to support grassroots sport across York and beyond. From coaching and club management to behind-the-scenes organisation, these volunteers are the heartbeat of their sporting communities.

And the finalists are…

Abbie Hallas
Abbie is the driving force behind York RI Women’s Rugby Team, balancing full-time work with a huge commitment to supporting players, coaches and the wider club. She has helped guide the team through a major rebuilding period, growing participation and creating a welcoming, thriving environment.

Liz Henley
Liz has played a pivotal role in transforming grassroots sport in Haxby, leading a major community sports facility project. Her work has brought clubs together and secured a long-term future for inclusive, multi-sport participation in the area.

Phil Sanderson
Phil has dedicated over 38 years to Hamilton Panthers Football Club, helping to grow it from a small group into a major grassroots organisation. His commitment to coaching, organising and maintaining facilities has supported generations of young players.

Sarah “SarChasm” Conn
Sarah is a highly respected roller derby official and Head of Officiating for Haunted City Roller Derby. She volunteers across the UK and internationally, supporting officials, growing the sport, and helping create an inclusive environment for all involved.

YO1 Radio Sports Awards 2026
The YO1 Radio Sports Awards are coming to the big screen for the very first time — landing at Cineworld York IMAX Theatre on the evening of Monday 8th June 2026.

It promises to be an unforgettable night of celebration, entertainment, and recognition for the incredible people who make up Team North Yorkshire. From grassroots heroes to elite performers, these awards exist to shine a spotlight on those who inspire, compete, coach, and give back through sport.

Nominations are now open, and this is your chance to put forward the individuals and teams who deserve to be recognised. Ticket details will be announced soon.

Award Description

This award celebrates the incredible contribution of volunteers who give their time to support local sport.

It recognises individuals whose commitment, dedication, and impact have made a real difference to their sport, club, team, or community.

Often working behind the scenes, volunteers are the heartbeat of grassroots sport, and this award exists to ensure their efforts do not go unnoticed.

WE HOPE TO SEE YOU ON JUNE 8TH!

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YO1 Radio Sports Awards 2026 – Nomination Terms & Conditions

1. Nominations for the YO1 Radio Sports Awards 2026 are open to individuals, teams, clubs, schools, and organisations based in or representing North Yorkshire.

2. The nomination period will close at 11:59pm on Tuesday 30th April 2026. Any nominations received after this time will not be considered.

3. All nominations must be submitted via the official YO1 Radio Sports Awards nomination form. Incomplete or illegible entries may be deemed invalid.

4. Supporting evidence such as photos, certificates, or documents may be uploaded as part of the nomination. By submitting these materials, you confirm that you have the right to share them and give YO1 Radio permission to use them for judging and promotional purposes.

5. Nominees may be contacted for verification or additional information as part of the judging process.

6. Shortlisted nominees will be selected by a judging panel appointed by YO1 Radio. The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

7. YO1 Radio reserves the right to move nominations into an alternative category where appropriate.

8. By submitting a nomination, you confirm that the information provided is true to the best of your knowledge.

9. Personal data will be used solely for the purpose of administering the awards and will be handled in accordance with data protection legislation.

10. Tickets for the YO1 Radio Sports Awards ceremony on Monday 8th June 2026 will be released at a later date. Submitting a nomination does not guarantee a ticket to the event.

11. YO1 Radio reserves the right to amend or withdraw categories and these Terms & Conditions at any time.