Unsung heroes’ dedication celebrated at Annual Awards 2024 presentation

The most dedicated coaches, officials and volunteers from across volleyball’s communities have today (Saturday 20th April) been recognised and celebrated at the Volleyball England Annual Awards 2024 presentation. 

A total of 11 awards were handed out across a range of categories to those unsung heroes who have made a real difference with their selfless hard work over the past year. 

The presentations were made to the winners in front of a packed Court 1 at the National Volleyball Centre in Kettering as part of Cup Finals Weekend 2024 – the domestic game’s showpiece occasion. 

That public recognition followed a more intimate VIP ceremony attended by the Volleyball England Board and other dignitaries, where the winners in each category were revealed from a shortlist of up to three contenders. 

This year’s awards were judged by a six-strong independent panel of experts drawn from across the sporting community. 

Malory Eagles player Grace Lazard, Coach of the Year Award winner 2023 Lee Barnett, England Netball’s Lucy Lawrence and Buddle’s Olivia Warwick joined Volleyball England Hub staff member Anna Knibbs and Board Director Phil French. 

“It has been truly inspiring to hear about so many people who have given so much by tirelessly working behind the scenes to ensure Volleyball in England is the best it can be,” said Laura Allcoat, Volleyball England’s Strategic Manager for Get. Keep. Grow. 

“The number of hours that so many people devote to the sport in so many different capacities is truly mind-boggling and, without them, the sport would simply not be able to support the growth of interest in the game in the last few years. 

“I would like to thank all the judges for taking the time to read through and judge all our fantastic nominations and, by doing so, allow us to celebrate the brilliant volleyball family we have. 

“Lastly, I would also like to thank all those in the sport, not just the award winners, who continue to give up their time and give something back. Not everyone can be given a trophy, but your efforts do not go unnoticed and are truly appreciated.” 

This year’s winners  

Coach of the Year for Adults – Nathan French (Team Essex Volleyball) 

Coach of the Year for Children and Young People - Jurek Jankowski (Volleyball Taunton) 

Young Coach of the Year - Noah Goalen (Richmond) 

Referee of the Year - Domenico De Mattia (London) 

Young referee of Year - Sarah Hanrahan (Eastern) 

Volunteer of the Year - Ancel Mitchell (Nottingham Rockets Volleyball Club) 

Young Volunteer of the Year - Joshua Chapman (Chelmsford Volleyball Club) 

HEVO of the Year - Joshua Tang (Durham Palatinates) 

Universal Services Club of the Year - Leeds Gorse Volleyball Club 

Contribution to Volleyball - Sam Yip (Maidenhead Volleyball Club) 

Unsung Hero - Jamie Davis (Dartford Volleyball Club)