News
Sport Gives Back Awards 2024, 24 March, ITV1
On Sunday, March 24, 2024 at 10:15 pm, tune in to ITV1 for the Sport Gives Back Awards 2024. This event recognizes the remarkable contributions of individuals and organisations that utilise sport to make a positive impact on the lives of countless people throughout the United Kingdom.
Hosted by Jeanette Kwakye and Josh Denzel and conceptualised by former athlete Connie Henry, this star-studded ceremony took place at Cadogan Hall in West London. The awards were presented in various categories to deserving winners who have made significant strides in their respective fields.
Notable figures from the world of sports such as Sir Mo Farah, Frank Lampard, Ellie Simmonds, Lawrence Dallaglio, and Dame Kelly Holmes graced the occasion with their presence. The Duke of Sussex also recorded a special message for one of the winners, adding an extra touch of distinction to this prestigious event.
Amongst the winners was Josh Boggi, Community Liaison Manager for The Invictus Games Foundation. Having lost both legs and his right arm while serving in Afghanistan, Josh developed a passion for cycling during his recovery process. He now works with other wounded and sick service personnel from around the globe to offer them similar opportunities for recovery.
Dan Ley received recognition from Dallaglio RugbyWorks with its Transforming Lives: Empowering Excluded Youth Award. After experiencing multiple expulsions from school during his teenage years, Dan turned his life around. He currently mentors young people in south Wales through rugby as a means of empowerment.
The Community Partnership Impact Award from Dame Kelly Holmes Trust went to Team Sheffield. These dedicated athlete mentors collaborate with Westfield Health and twelve schools to support young individuals facing personal challenges on their journey towards achieving their aspirations.
In honor of its Team for Life Award category, Greenhouse Sports acknowledged Sarah Bonnell School in east London. Despite being located in one of the capital’s most deprived areas, this school partnered with the charity to implement a tennis program during the pandemic. This initiative has not only boosted the confidence, teamwork, and resilience of its students but also enriched their overall experience.
Connor Hyde was granted Lord’s Taverners’ Inspire Award for his outstanding contributions. Overcoming personal challenges related to cerebral palsy and epilepsy, Connor actively participates in Somerset Super 1s disability cricket project and now leads some of its sessions. In addition, he coaches at his local cricket club while working as a personal trainer.
Sported bestowed its Community Sport Social Impact Award upon Joe Donnelly from Northern Ireland. Joe established a mental health charity dedicated to raising awareness after losing a friend to suicide. Through sport-based programs conducted in clubs, schools, and youth groups, Tackling Awareness of Mental Health Issues provides engaging and enjoyable opportunities for individuals to discuss mental well-being.
The Elfrida Society in Islington, north London secured the Community Group of the Year award presented by SportWorks. With a century-long history of supporting autistic individuals or those with learning disabilities within their community, The Elfrida Society offers various sporting activities such as tennis, studio fitness classes, and football.
Youth Sport Trust honoured Jill Newbolt from Sheffield with their Building Brighter Futures award. Jill has devoted her career to breaking down societal barriers that impede children with disabilities from participating fully in sports and physical education—particularly those with profound and multiple learning disabilities.
Join ITV1 on Sunday, March 24 at 10:15 pm for an inspiring evening celebrating the power of sport to make positive changes across communities.