SWAS unveils new award

The South West Academy of Sport is once again getting ready to roll out the red carpet for its annual dinner and awards night.

To be held at Bunbury's All Seasons Sanctuary Golf Resort on Friday December 3, the glamorous event will see awards presented to the academy's top sports men and women for 2010.

In addition, a new award named in honour of the late Wally Foreman will be presented to an individual for their contribution to sport.

SWAS chief executive officer Bernice Butlion said the event, which will feature former Perth Wildcats coach Alan Black as a guest speaker, was an opportunity to highlight the achievements of the academy's top athletes.

“The athletes have worked hard to achieve success in their individual sports throughout the year, often making sacrifices along the way, and this is our chance to recognise their efforts,” she said.

“Trophies will be given to the most outstanding athletes in the SWAS basketball, football, hockey and soccer programs, as well as the individual scholarship program.

“No doubt athletes will also have their eyes on the highly coveted Emerging Athlete and Sports Star of the Year awards.”

Butlion said the Wally Foreman Award had been introduced to shine the spotlight on people who work behind the scenes in sport.

“There are many dedicated people, such as coaches and administrators, who contribute to sporting success in the region but whose efforts go without public acknowledgment,” she said.

“This award will recognise their efforts in achieving sporting excellence.”