Active Awards

Below are the details of the Active Awards 2025 winners. They are listed by category with quotes about each winner, which were read out at the awards ceremony on 29 January 2026.

Active School Award: Congerstone Primary School

Congerstone Primary School provides exceptionally wide-ranging opportunities for physical activity, sport and wellbeing.

Actively Welcome: Cancer Active Recovery Support (C.A.R.S)

“Without Michelle and the warm welcome she provided, I would never have had the courage to attend the In The Pink programme for my cancer recovery.”

Coaches' Contribution: Wayne Higginson (Burbage Taekwondo Academy)

“He builds character, instils discipline and fosters a deep sense of respect and integrity in every student.”

Marvellous Mentor: Katherine Dale (Leicestershire and Rutland Youth Sailing)

“Katherine had the idea of forming the LRYSA parents’ committee and is its chair and inspiring leader. She is always supporting the teams, from fundraising to towing boats, and acts as a mentor to all the parents and children.”

Junior Sportsperson of the Year: Jack Charles Bailey

“He was invited to test in the world of Formula 4 and was signed as the youngest Arden International professional racing driver on their books. This is the same F1 programme that Oscar Piastri started his career on.”

Sportsperson of the Year: Joshua Bailey (Dressage)

Joshua represented his county this year winning silver medal and he has entered into a pathway to represent his country at European level in the hope to be selected in the Olympic process.”

Disability Sportsperson of the Year: Matthew Chilvers (Tennis)

As well as playing for the Special Olympic East Midlands Tennis Teams and Desford Lawn Tennis Club, Matt has set up a relaxed, inclusive autism-friendly tennis group to encourage and support other neurodiverse players. Matt sits on the LTA National Disability Group and the Special Olympic Tennis Technical Group, where, as a neurodiverse coach and player, he can advise and support the groups to be as accessible as possible for all players.”

Inclusivity Award: Desford Lawn Tennis Club

“Desford Lawn Tennis Club's ethos is tennis for all and the club welcomes everyone to play, offering a wide range of groups to support all ages and ability.”  

Inspiring Instructor: Rebecca Blower

"She is always focused on giving her class members the very best experience. She can scan the room and see who needs any support or help.”

Junior Club of the Year: Hinckley Juniors Football Club

“The girls put 100% into each training session, friendly and league game, and have so much fun as well as learning new skills.”

Sports Club of the Year: LRYSA Senior Citizens Club

“The LRYSA as a charity could not run efficiently as it has done without the vital contributions from our Senior Citizens Club. All of the boat maintenance, repairs, and improvements to the compound are completed by the senior club alone. This is carried out alongside sailing.”

Junior Team of the Year: TKT Cheerleading

“They support not only the older members but the younger ones too, creating such a positive and welcoming environment. My daughter is autistic, and they always make the effort to include her. She absolutely loves attending every Saturday morning.”

Sports Team of the Year: TKT Cheerleading

“Tracy and Syreeta and all the coaches at TKT Cheerleading dedicate so much time and care into TKT, it’s honestly amazing. It gives all the cheerleaders so much confidence and fitness and helps them learn to work as a team."

Junior Volunteer of the Year: Morgan Cresswell (Hinckley Club for Young People)

“Morgan dedicates two nights a week, plus all his summer holidays, into volunteering at the youth club. Morgan does sports with over 2,000 children a year. Morgan is really good at helping.”

School Team of the Year: St Peters Primary School – Athletics Team

“This year, our athletes have demonstrated exceptional talent, determination, and sportsmanship, making it a truly unforgettable year in sport. This is a phenomenal achievement for a small village school and a testament to the skill, hard work and dedication of our students.”

School Wellbeing Award: Heath Lane Academy & Congerstone Primary School

Heath Lane Academy: “By promoting kindness, hard work, and respect in line with Heath Lane’s ethos, the Pastoral and THRIVE team ensure that every child feels included and supported. Their dedication transforms lives, prevents exclusions, and creates a safe, nurturing environment where every student can succeed."

Congerstone Primary School: “Congerstone Primary School has created a nurturing environment where children feel safe, supported, and empowered to succeed. The school is a shining example of best practice in wellbeing.”

Outstanding Contribution (Adults): Brett Haywood (Leicestershire & Rutland Youth Sailing)

“Brett is a popular and invaluable member of the LRYSA Association, always warm and welcoming to new members and encouraging progress in a kind and non-threatening way.”

Outstanding Contribution (Juniors): Clara Byford (Leicestershire & Rutland Youth Sailing)

“Clara is too young to be a junior instructor but that does not stop her training and supporting younger, less experienced members of the junior club, showing patience beyond her years. Every Saturday she asks the head coach what she can do to help and whatever task needs doing she does it without hesitation and does it well.”

Last updated: 02/02/2026 12:33