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The Active Youth Champion Award celebrates individuals in Lincolnshire supporting children and young people to move more. This could be through delivering activity sessions or supporting them in other ways to encourage, or enable them to be active. It celebrates those who are opening opportunities for more children to be active, especially for those who are currently less active and facing barriers to participating in physical activity

Our Finalists

Jessica Mortimer

Jessica, 'Miss Jess' to her pupils, runs Jessica Leigh Dance Studios in Lincoln, creating a nurturing, inclusive and inspiring environment for children aged 18 months to 18 years. At her studio, every child is celebrated, supported and encouraged to thrive - regardless of ability, background or needs. Miss Jess not only teaches high-quality dance but also builds confidence, resilience and friendships. Her positive, child-centred approach transforms lives, and encourages each child to be the best dancer they can be.

In 2025, Miss Jess led 29 dancers to perform at Disneyland Paris, a life-changing experience she made accessible to all by opening it to every student and organising months of rehearsals and fundraising. She gives countless hours to ensure all dancers feel valued and have opportunities to shine. The studio also offers assistant opportunities for teenage dancers who are interested in either pursuing dance, teaching or working with children in the future,

Juan Diaz

Juan Diaz is the driving force behind Burgh Town FC’s U11s team, dedicating countless volunteer hours alongside his full-time job as a secondary school teacher. From mowing the pitch and organising fixtures to delivering weekly, child-centred coaching sessions, Juan does it all with passion and humility. When he took over, the team was struggling for numbers, now, thanks to his tireless efforts and inclusive approach, they’ve grown to two full squads.

Juan creates a positive, supportive environment where every child is valued, regardless of ability. His commitment extends beyond football: he mentors, supports families, and instils life skills like teamwork, respect, and resilience. He sacrifices evenings, weekends, and holidays to run sessions and camps, ensuring every player feels part of something special.

Terry Plumb

Terry, a qualified PE teacher at Priory Ruskin Academy and School Games Organiser for South West Lincolnshire retired this year in July, after a remarkable 40-year career dedicated to school sport. Since 1985, Terry has positively impacted thousands of young people by organising inclusive and diverse sporting opportunities across primary, secondary, and special schools. In 2024–25 alone, he delivered 52 events, engaging over 8,600 pupils, including significant participation from girls, SEND pupils, culturally diverse groups, and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

His work has promoted physical skills, social connections, and lifelong participation in sport. Terry also championed youth leadership, training over 400 secondary students as Sports Leaders and delivering 2,400 hours of volunteer service. He has forged links with local clubs to extend opportunities beyond school, always ensuring events are positive, purposeful, and accessible.

View all our finalists