Hampshire Rugby Volunteers Recognised at Special Celebration Event
More than 90 volunteers and invited guests from across Hampshire came together at Winchester RFC to celebrate the outstanding individuals who make rugby happen across the county at the RFU’s annual Volunteer Recognition Event.
Volunteers are the heartbeat of rugby, dedicating countless hours to everything from coaching and refereeing to maintaining pitches, running clubhouses, organising events and creating welcoming environments for players, members and supporters alike. Their passion and commitment are what keep the game thriving at grassroots level.
Each year, the RFU encourages clubs to nominate individuals and groups for its Volunteer of the Year Awards, supported by Switch Car Rental. The awards recognise volunteers across three categories:
- Unsung Hero – for those who go above and beyond, often unnoticed, to make rugby happen and improve the experience for everyone involved.
- Game for All – celebrating volunteers who have developed inspiring initiatives to make rugby more accessible and attract new audiences.
- Keeping Players in the Game – recognising those who have played a crucial role in supporting player retention and helping people stay involved in rugby at key transition points.
This year, more than 100 Hampshire volunteers were nominated by their clubs for the awards. To recognise their incredible contribution, Hampshire RFU invited nominees and guests to a special evening of celebration and thanks at Winchester RFC.
The event began with a welcome drink, providing an opportunity for volunteers from across the county to connect, share stories and celebrate their achievements together. Throughout the evening, nominees were recognised for the countless hours they dedicate to supporting their clubs and local rugby communities.
Guests also took part in a Hampshire RFU raffle, with prizes including a pair of Men’s Six Nations tickets, a Hampshire RFU stash voucher, and, as ever, a selection of refreshments that proved extremely popular with attendees.
Among this year’s nominees, a shortlist of 5 were put forward to the RFU for national recognition:
- Gemma House – Locksheath Pumas RFC
- Harry Andrews – Aldershot & Fleet RFC
- Leonie Randles – Romsey RFC
- Nigel Spencer – Hampshire Rugby Referees
- Stefan Hargrave – Trojans FC
The RFU selected Gemma House and Harry Andrews as a national finalists, and will now attend the RFU Volunteer of the Year Awards at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, in September.
Hannah Avoth, Director of People at Hampshire RFU, said:
“Hampshire RFU is delighted to celebrate and recognise the amazing contribution of our volunteers across Hampshire. These awards are a really simple and visible way for clubs to thank their volunteers, and we hope to see even more nominations in future years.
“Each of the nominees should be hugely proud of being recognised by their club. Volunteers are the lifeblood of our sport, and it was fantastic to welcome so many dedicated people to this year’s celebration event. We wanted to recognise not only their nominations, but also the passion, time and energy they bring to the game week in, week out.”
Martin Wilson, CEO of Switch Car Rental, added:
“Switch is proud to support the Volunteer Recognition Programme. Without the dedication of volunteers at every level of the grassroots game, the sport we know and love wouldn’t be able to survive. Well done to all those nominated for this year’s Volunteer Awards.”
The Volunteer of the Year Awards continue to shine a spotlight on the individuals who often work behind the scenes but whose efforts are essential to the success and growth of rugby. Hampshire RFU would like to thank every club that submitted nominations and congratulate all those recognised during the evening.
We look forward to celebrating even more of Hampshire’s rugby volunteers in the years ahead.
