The shortlist has been announced for the 2016 Northampton Rugby Spirit Award, which celebrates the commitment of local rugby coaches, administrators and players in the growth of the sport in the Northampton area.
The award, which is presented in conjunction with Northampton Borough Council, will be handed out at the Northampton Saints’ End of Season Awards on Monday, May 9th.
This year’s shortlist is Neil Chater and Stephen Morgan.
Neil has been at the heart of Northampton Old Scouts’ minis and juniors section for many years, establishing the club as one of the healthiest in the area. In Neil’s time Old Scouts also became the only junior club in the country to boast two Rugby World Cup winners as former players, Steve Thompson and Ben Cohen.
Stephen is stepping down as head of coaching in the East Midlands Rugby Union (EMRU), a position he has filled for a number of seasons. In this time he has spearheaded a rigid East Midlands representative age group coaching structure, putting in place the foundation for a healthy youth development programme that will last for years to come. His commitment to entrenching the values and fun of rugby union has also seen player numbers grow within the area.
“We are delighted to be a part of the 2016 Northampton Rugby Spirit Awards,” said Mary Markham, leader of Northampton Borough Council. “Northampton has seen so many great sporting achievements over the years and it is fantastic to recognise and celebrate those people who have gone above and beyond with their dedication to the progress of sport in Northampton.”
