The Unsung Hero Award recognises a volunteer who gives up their own time to a club, association, activity or project for the benefit of the participants and/or community. It celebrates those who have made a significant impact through their volunteering and support opportunities for people to be more active.

Take a look at our finalist for this award.

Finalists

John Brett

John is an extraordinary volunteer whose compassion, dedication and commitment have made a lasting difference to people living with and beyond cancer through the Fighting Fit programme. He gives far more than his role requires, creating a warm and welcoming environment where every participant feels valued, supported and understood during what can be an incredibly difficult time in their lives.

John’s contribution goes beyond delivering sessions. He brings people together, builds friendships and provides a level of encouragement and personal support that participants describe as exceptional. His genuine care for others shines through in everything he does, and he continues to give his time and energy even while managing his own health challenges. John understands that Fighting Fit is about much more than physical activity – it is about connection, confidence, belonging and helping people feel less alone. His selfless commitment has had a profoundly positive impact on participants and their families.

Nigel Oldham

Nigel has dedicated more than 28 years to volunteering as a swimming coach with Lincoln Vulcans Swimming Club, becoming an integral part of the club and supporting countless young swimmers on their journey from learn-to-swim programmes into competitive swimming. Even after celebrating his 70th birthday in 2025, Nigel continues to lead two junior squads, giving around 10 hours of his own time each week across seven poolside sessions. He also attends competitions to support and guide his swimmers as they put their skills into practice.

Nigel’s impact extends far beyond the swimmers he coaches. Over nearly three decades, he has contributed to the development of athletes who have gone on to compete internationally at Commonwealth and Olympic level. He has also played a vital role in developing the next generation of coaches, encouraging trainee coaches to work alongside him and gain valuable experience. Nigel’s commitment, knowledge and generosity have helped shape both swimmers and coaches, making him a true legend and an unsung hero of Lincoln Vulcans.

Charlie Smith

Charlie is an outstanding grassroots volunteer who has transformed from a parent with no football or coaching experience into a dedicated junior coach creating positive opportunities for children across Lincolnshire. He stepped up to lead his youngest son’s team when nobody else would, ensuring the children had a team to play for. Since then, Charlie has invested his own time and money in developing his coaching skills, completing CPD with Lincoln City FC, shadowing experienced coaches, volunteering with his older son’s team and refereeing finals and tournaments across different age groups.

Charlie’s commitment goes beyond football. Drawing on his understanding of neurodiversity, he is passionate about ensuring every child feels safe, included and valued. He has dedicated time to developing his knowledge of neuroinclusive coaching and moved his son’s team to a club that shares his inclusive approach. For Charlie, success is not measured by the scoreboard, but by whether every child leaves a session feeling confident, supported and happy

The winners for all award categories will be announced at our Award Ceremony on 12 November. View all our 2026 award finalists here.