GENTLEMAN JIM WINS UNSUNG HERO AWARD

Kimmo Muttonen on 31/05/2005

Jim Lightbody of Tennis Wales, collected the annual award for the WSA Unsung Hero at the Welsh Sports Hall of Fame Dinner on Friday 6th May.

Each year the Association presents an ‘Unsung Hero Award’ – given to an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to Welsh sport, which may not necessarily have gained public recognition. Sports across the country is largely dependent on an army of volunteers – whether they be administrators, officials, coaches or general helpers – who give up their time so freely to safeguard the participation of others. Without such volunteers, quite simply, British sport in its current form could not continue.

The WSA Chairman, Mr Bob Turner, paid the following tribute:

“Our winner this year is the epitome of the ‘Unsung Hero’ – a tireless and dedicated volunteer. An accomplished all round sportsman in his own right, he has served his chosen sport with distinction over fifty years, as a player, captain, coach educator, team manager, fundraiser and highly respected senior match officials.

As a sports administrator, he has few peers, and has served on each and every one of his governing body’s committees. He currently chairs his sports’ Executive Board, where his visionary leadership and passion for his sport continue to inspire those around him.

Having left his native Greenock for his adopted city, Swansea, some 45 years ago, Scotland’s loss has very definitely been Wales’ gain. Not one – but five hip operations have failed to curtail his enthusiasm and love of Welsh Tennis, and I can think of no more deserving winner of this prestigious award.”

Other awards given that evening saw Colin Jackson and John Toshack being inducted into the Hall of Fame and Gerald Davies accept his award as Welsh Sports Journalist of the Year.

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