Community Recognition Awards 2026

Applications have now opened for Scottish Rugby's Community Recognition Awards 2026.

The Community Recognition Awards are a chance to celebrate the people at the heart of Scottish Rugby.

From volunteers and coaches giving up countless hours behind the scenes to teachers, players and community champions, the awards recognise the individuals who give their time, energy and passion to help rugby thrive across Scotland.

Community rugby simply wouldn’t exist without these people. Their commitment creates opportunities, brings communities together and inspires the next generation both on and off the pitch.

Whether it’s a lifelong volunteer, an inspiring young leader, a dedicated coach or a club initiative making a difference in the community, Scottish Rugby is encouraging clubs and schools to submit nominations and help shine a light on the incredible people making a difference across the game.

Nominations are now open for the following awards:

 

Unless otherwise stated, these categories will be split by geographical area. Winners of awards will be named for each of these six regions:

  • Caledonia North
  • Caledonia Midlands
  • Borders & East Lothian
  • Edinburgh, Midlothian & West Lothian
  • Glasgow North
  • Glasgow South

 

Nominations will close on Friday 31 July 2026.

 

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Community Recognition Awards

  • What are the 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.

    They celebrate the people who are the heartbeat of rugby in Scotland, recognising the dedication, passion and hard work that keeps the community game thriving.

    From lifelong volunteers to inspiring coaches and local champions, the awards shine a light on those making a lasting difference both on and off the pitch.

    Nominations for the 2025/26 season are now open and will close on Friday 31 July 2026.

  • What are the award categories in the Community Recognition Awards?

    Volunteer of the Season in Youth Rugby, 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 Person’s Award, 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.

    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.

    Spirit of Rugby, recognises individuals or groups within the Scottish Rugby community who consistently uphold the sport’s core values in everything they do.

  • What are the Terms & Conditions?

    1. Scottish Rugby Community Recognition Awards 2026 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 2026 will close on 31 July 2026.
    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 2026, 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.