This Is Guernsey

By Emily Burden

Left to right: Lady Malbon, Jack Cotterill, 10, and athlete Dale Garland, who presented Jack with his award. (Picture by Adrian Miller, 0784820)

A YOUNG gymnast has won this year’s Lady Taverners Sports Endeavour Award.

Jack Cotterill, 10, who is a member of the Guernsey Specials Gym Club, was chosen for his hard work and dedication to the sport.

‘It is always very difficult to choose a winner, but having received more than one nomination, Jack is a very worthy one,’ said chairman of the Guernsey Lady Taverners Zoe Cousens.

‘It is always nice to watch the club’s gymnastic display – you can see how much they have progressed throughout the year.’

The award was initiated by The Lady Taverners, as part of their programme to help and encourage young people with special needs to participate in sporting and recreational activity.

Anya Aldous-Granby and Aaron Kerr were the two runners-up. Both are also members of the Guernsey Specials Gym Club.

The award does not necessarily go to the top performer at their chosen sport, but to someone who plays in the right spirit, who may well have to overcome personal challenges and whose positive attitude and determination reflects in their sporting endeavours.

‘We are delighted to support and encourage these youngsters who have worked so hard to show us what they can achieve with this wonderful athletics display,’ said Mrs Cousens.

‘The team at the Guernsey Specials Gym Club must be congratulated for the tremendous amount of time and care they spend to provide the children not only with beneficial physical stimulation, but also with a wonderful social environment.’

Guernsey athlete Dale Garland presented Jack with his award. He said it was great that there was an award that recognised the effort children had put into their sport.

‘You can really see how much the children have achieved.’

Jack was presented with a certificate and an engraved trophy to keep, a cheque for £250 for the Guernsey Specials Gym Club to buy appropriate sports equipment, and a voucher for £15 from Intersport.

Article posted on 11th June, 2009 - 4.18pm