Carolyn Blackburn won the Unsung Hero Award sponsored by Everyone Active at the Lincolnshire Sport & Physical Activity Awards 2022.

The Unsung Hero Award celebrates an individual that has worked tirelessly in a ‘behind the scenes role’ for the benefit of others and who has made a significant difference to the lives of the people and communities they support.

Carolyn was recognised for her fantastic work running Louth netball club. She also has a commitment to Lincolnshire County netball where she is involved with u11’s, u13’s and u16’s hubs. Carolyn has also been helping out with the Market Rasen netball league where she has been umpiring. We found out more about Carolyn and her passion for netball.

Can you tell us a little bit more about what your role at Louth Netball Club and in Lincolnshire County Netball involves?

At Louth Netball Club I am Chair Person, which involves all the communication between the Club & the County & between the Club & the players/parents. I am also Head Coach: which involves planning the training sessions, organising teams, coaches & umpires. As part of Lincolnshire County Netball I have three roles: Safe guarding officer, U11 & U13 Performance Academy Lead Coach & Fixture Secretary (I organise all the Lincolnshire League fixtures for U11, U12, U14, U16 & Seniors).

What do you find most rewarding about being involved in netball in Lincolnshire?

"I love motivating & inspiring young players and seeing their progress due to their commitment and dedication. I also love giving opportunities to players, coaches & umpires & seeing them thrive."

What benefits do participants get from taking part in netball?

It improves their physical & mental well being. I love to witness the socialisation, the fact that often the players come from several different schools and they develop friendships. I definitely have friends for life from netball.

What are you most proud of in your work in netball?

I am proud of how Louth Netball Club has grown & gone from strength to strength. We now have waiting lists in all age groups ( I wish I had more time!). I'm also proud of all the players (but in particular the elite athletes who play for Lincolnshire & Loughborough Lightning), the development of the volunteers, umpires (the youngest 'Into officiating' umpire) and coaches. Winning Lincolnshire Club of the year in 2018-19 was a highlight. Plus qualifying & competing in both the Regional Junior U14 & U16 Leagues this season for the first time.

What does winning the award mean to you?

Everything. I feel proud, I feel acknowledged and appreciated for all the work I have done in the last 15 plus years. However, a Club doesn't run on its own, so the award is for Louth Netball Club because I appreciate all the help I receive from players & parents.

How can people find out more about getting involved in Netball in Lincolnshire?

People can find out more about netball opportunities on the England Netball website, the Lincolnshire County Netball website and or on the Lincolnshire County Netball Facebook page.

Thank you to Everyone Active for sponsoring the Unsung Hero Award