Students and Staff win big at St Albans District Sport Awards

ST ALBANS — Oaklands College is celebrating a quadruple win at last night’s St Albans District Sport Awards, with staff and students winning accolades for their sporting achievements and positive impact on sports development with the College.

The annual awards, now in its fourth year celebrates the very best in sporting talent and achievement in the area. Celebrity guest former England international rugby player Sally Tuson gave an inspiring insight into her own sporting success to the packed audience of athletes and community sport enthusiasts.

Taking a Recognition in the Disability Athlete of the Year was Equine student 20 year old Jake Hulley from Hatfield. Jake was recognised for his passion, devotion and enthusiasm for Equestrian, demonstrated with two gold medal wins at the National Games for Dressage and Working Trail.

22-year-old Tom Miller, also studying Equine received the prestigious ‘Rowland Shield’  – an award which is dedicated to an athlete who has demonstrated the Special Olympics ideal – dedication, commitment and enthusiasm to the sport. Tom is currently going through the selection process which could see him head to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, in 2019 as part of the Team GB Special Olympics Equine team.

College Sport Maker Kirsty Armstrong came away with the ‘Contribution to FE/HE’ award as recognition for the integral role she has played in developing an inclusive and varied sports enrichment programme. In her role within the Colleges ‘Outside the Box’ team, Kirsty leads in regular weekly lunchtime sessions such as Football and Badminton as well as picking up student requests and making fun, relaxed sessions for all students.

Taking a winning title in Female Community Coach of the Year was EDSV coach Leigh Nichols, a former student who has channelled her passion for football in developing a successful female football programme at Oaklands College. Ladies Academy Head Coach Leigh is about to begin her UEFA B License and has also developed a training provision for over 75 youngsters who now play with the Academy on a weekly basis.

Oaklands College Principal Zoe Hancock said: “As a College we are committed to encouraging and supporting all levels of sporting achievement and the St Albans Sport Awards is a great opportunity to celebrate the wider impact of these commitments to the local community.”