Could you be a judge for the Annual Awards 2026?

The awards celebrate the incredible people who make volleyball happen, from dedicated coaches and referees to inspiring volunteers and community players. 

With nominations now open ahead of the presentation ceremony in April 2026, we are looking for enthusiastic judges to help select this year's most deserving winners. 

What we are looking for:

We are seeking passionate, fair, and knowledgeable individuals who share our love for volleyball and our commitment to recognise excellence across the sport. 

Ideal judges will:

• Have a good understanding of grassroots sport in England, whether involved in playing, coaching, officiating, volunteering, or supporting grassroots sport.
• Being objective and fair-minded, able to assess nominations based solely on evidence provided.
• Be able to commit the time required to review and score nominations within the given timeframe. 
• Be enthusiastic about celebrating the people who make volleyball thrive across all levels. 

We are particularly keen to assemble a diverse panel that reflected the wide range of experiences and perspectives within the volleyball community, from grassroots to elite levels, and from all regions of the country. 

Timescales

• Nominations shared: 11th March 2026
• Judging period: 11th-22nd March 2026
• Scores submitted by: 22nd March 2026

You will have just over a week to review and score the shortlisted nominations against the award criteria.

Guidance and scoring templates will be provided in advance. 

The impact you will make

By joining the judging panel, you will play a key role in shining a spotlight on the individuals and clubs who make volleyball in England special. 

From courtside coaches and referees to volunteers and club leaders, your input will help ensure that those who dedicate their time, passion, and energy receive the recognition they truly deserve. 

Hear from last year's judges...

James Ballard

"Taking part in the Volleyball England Annual Awards Judging Panel was a rewarding experience. 

For me, reading about the amazing work in each category and the time and effort people put into sport and volleyball was fantastic.

I thoroughly enjoyed hearing these stories and nominations, whereby the individuals have clearly made and continue to make a difference to people's lives and experience of the sport. The process itself was simple and easy to do.

I would encourage others to take part in supporting the judging proess and the Annual Awards event for Volleyball England."

Kerry Snuggs BEM

"I found the judging of the awards truly heartwarming and inspirational. 

It's amazing to see how many people contribute their time and passion to support the volleyball community.

From coaches and players to volunteers and organisers, each person plays a vital role in making the sport thrive.

These collective efforts create a positive and welcoming environment that helps volleyball grow and succeed at every level. 

Celebrating achievements through awards not only recognises individual talent but also honours the teamwork and dedication behind the scenes."

Jeremy Harris

"As a judge last year, I was inspired by the range and number of amazing submissions by individuals for the people that had impacted their lives in our volleyball community. 

It was warming to read the motivation and reasons for the nominations, and it helped me understand, even better, the truly great sport we are all involved with and special people that make it happen."

How to get involved

If you would like to be part of this year's Annual Awards 2026 Judging Panel, please complete the form linked below. 

Apply here to be a judge. If you have any questions, please contact membership@volleyballengland.org