Community Recognition Awards

The Community Recognition Awards are the annual domestic game awards programme, focusing on the on and off-field efforts of clubs, schools and societies across Scotland over the course of the last year.

Nominations for the 2024/25 season are now open. Please follow the instructions on this form to nominate.

Volunteer of the Season in Youth rugby, sponsored by inspiresport, which recognises a volunteer that has gone above and beyond in youth club rugby to ensure young people are provided with the chance to play the game in a safe, fun and friendly environment.

Volunteer of the Season in Schools rugby, sponsored by Saltire Energy, will be presented to a volunteer who has gone above and beyond in school’s rugby to ensure young people are provided with the chance to play the game in a safe, fun and friendly environment.

Volunteer of the Season in Adult Rugby, sponsored by Arnold Clark, which credits a volunteer who has made a significant contribution to adult rugby, going above and beyond to provide rugby opportunities for all.

Young Persons award, sponsored by inspiresport, highlighting an outstanding young person who goes above and beyond and is a role model to young people and the rugby community.

Community Club of the Season, sponsored by Arnold Clark, will be awarded to a club which caters for the whole community, working tirelessly to promote equality, diversity, and inclusion in a welcoming, safe and fun environment.

Community Match Official of the Season, sponsored by Arnold Clark, will be presented to a Match Official who has made a significant contribution to the game and executed a high performance on the pitch.

An additional award will be presented to the Glasgow South region, The Adam Gray Memorial Award. This award was created in memory of former Scottish Rugby Board and Council member and Stewartry rugby stalwart Adam Gray, who passed away in March 2020. The award aims to recognise those who have shown an outstanding contribution to the game in the region.

1. Scottish Rugby Community Recognition Awards 2025 is open to all member clubs and societies of Scottish Rugby.
2. Nominations must be made for individuals who operate on a volunteer basis i.e. are not employed by a club or society.
3. Nominations for the Community Recognition Awards 2025 will close at midnight on 26 January 2025.
4. Nominations must be made online via the relevant category Microsoft Office form.
5. No entries received by post will be considered.
6. Multiple entries will be reviewed but only one entry per individual can be successful.
7. If nominating a young volunteer (U18), please ensure that the contact details supplied are for parents/guardians.
8. All nominated volunteers must agree to take part in publicity in connection with Scottish Rugby’s Community Recognition Awards 2025, unless otherwise stated by the nominated volunteer.
9. All applicants and participants in the Awards agree that their personal data may be processed by Scottish Rugby.
10. Award winners will be selected by a judging panel, comprised of Scottish Rugby’s Club Rugby Board and members of the Rugby Development Department.
11. Award winners will be invited to a Community Awards ceremony in spring 2025. Dates to be confirmed with finalists in due course.

Top tips

Here are five top tips for writing a compelling nomination for a Community Recognition Award:

Start with a Clear Introduction

Begin by stating who you are nominating and the specific award category. Provide a brief summary of their achievements and why they deserve the recognition. This sets the tone for the rest of the nomination.

Highlight Specific Achievements

Tip: Focus on measurable outcomes, such as participation growth or notable milestones. If you can it’s always good to include facts, figures and dates.

Tell a Personal Story

Share a compelling story that illustrates the nominee’s impact on individuals or the community. Personal anecdotes make the nomination more relatable and memorable.

Emphasize Values and Impact

Values and rugby go hand-in-hand. Showcase how the nominee embodies the core values of Scottish Rugby – leadership, engagement, achievement, enjoyment, respect, and inclusion and diversity.

Follow the Award Criteria

Carefully review the nomination guidelines and ensure your submission aligns with the criteria provided – and don’t forget to read the terms and conditions above!