July 2, 2015, by Hannah Webber
University introduces first ever Diversity in Sport award
The Diversity in Sport award made its first appearance at the 2015 University of Nottingham sports ball.
The aim of the award is to promote equality of opportunity for different groups, widen participation, tackle discrimination and demonstrate the values set out in the University Sport and Disability sport strategies.
The Student Union Sports Officer Kiri Madhani felt that the introduction of the award was key in not only recognising achievements of clubs and individuals, but also in raising awareness of the sporting opportunities available to all students based at the University;
“For me and from a representational perspective introducing the award was extremely important this year. Not only does it align with our values of collaboration and inclusivity, but it actively rewards those going above and beyond to ensure all students can have an excellent sporting experience at the University. Creating the award and presenting at our annual sports ball amongst other prestigious awards shows that we are invested in ensuring that all avenues of sports participation are developed and excelled.”
Sam Bell-Minogue who is the Assistant Director of Sport for Participation at the University, also said:
“As a Sports department, we are committed to providing sporting opportunities for all and feel that the introduction of the Diversity in Sport award further demonstrates our ambitions to deliver a positive sporting experience for all students coming to the University of Nottingham.”
The nominations that were made for the award demonstrated some fantastic pieces of work being done by clubs and individuals throughout the University, to increase the diversity of sport participation. The clubs shortlisted for the award included:
- The Archery club who have been working to increase the number of disabled students participating in their sport;
- The Riding club for the introduction of inclusive riding sessions and their volunteering efforts at local RDA centres, and;
- The Men’s Hockey club for their work around tackling homophobia in sport.
The Riding club received the award and were understandably pleased with their achievement:
“As a club we were delighted to win this award as it recognises the importance of providing sporting opportunities for all. We want to offer riding to a diverse range of students, especially those who feel that sport is less accessible to them. Personally, this award has ended an incredible year working with the Riding for the Disabled and University of Nottingham sports development team. This award is credit to every member who has given their time both to the local community and to help other students, their dedication end enthusiasm is unparalleled. Watch this space as there is certainly more to come from us!”
If you’re a club or individual and feel inspired to work on a project to increase diversity in sport at the University, then please speak to the SU Sports Officer, your Club Development Coordinator or the Disability Sport Officer for further guidance and support.
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