Derry woman makes it through to Community Champions Awards final
Susan Spence, Head of Administration, City of Derry RFC has made it through to the final of the SONI Community Champions Awards.
The Awards, which are spearheaded by SONI (System Operator for Northern Ireland) alongside Ulster Rugby recognise and reward volunteers who work tirelessly for their local rugby club and who have made a huge contribution to grassroots rugby.
As part of the awards Susan was joined by three other finalists at a special reception held at Kingspan Stadium recently. The final winners will be announced at Ulster Branches Rugby Awards on Saturday 6th May.
This is the second year of the SONI Community Champions Awards. Open to volunteers who perform a wide variety of roles, from coaches to fundraisers, treasurers to event managers - nominations are invited from people operating in both adult and youth categories.
This year two winners will walk away with a £1,000 bursary for their local club, with two runners up being awarded £500.
The three other finalists are John Curry, Honorary Secretary, Randalstown RFC, Gary McFarlane, Youth Convenor, Larne RFC and Richard Black, Youth Convenor, City of Armagh RFC.
Nick Fullerton, Senior Manager, SONI, said: “This is the second year of our Community Champions Awards and the quality of entries has continued to grow. The judging panel had an extremely difficult task choosing the winners from what was an exceptional shortlist of entrants and we continue to be bowled over by the contribution made by volunteers who give up so much of their free time for the benefit of their local club and community. At SONI we’re very proud to be the driving force behind an initiative which recognises and rewards those who serve their community and are very much looking forward to celebrating with our finalists at the Ulster Rugby Awards dinner next month.”
Graffin Parke, Senior Vice President, Ulster Rugby said: “Selecting just four finalists wasn’t an easy task for the judges but unfortunately, there can only be four finalists and two overall winners. All our finalists demonstrated a commitment to our core values of integrity, respect, inclusivity, fun and excellence as well as a willingness to consistently go above and beyond the call of duty, resulting in a hugely positive contribution and impact on their club.
"The SONI Community Champions Award is a fantastic way to recognise volunteers’ achievements and to say thank you for their hard work, commitment and devotion. All four finalists are worthy winners and deserve this recognition.”