Enabling Sporting Opportunity

For creating the practical conditions and culture that enable excellence in sport, health, or wellbeing.

Nominees

Swapnil Kulkarni

Swapnil has made an outstanding contribution to creating opportunities for international sporting engagement through his collaborative, solution-focused approach and unwavering support for global partnerships. By helping to develop and deliver meaningful programmes for international partners, including key collaborations with leading universities, he has strengthened Loughborough Sport’s international reach and reputation. His ability to bring together academic, sporting and operational priorities ensures visitors and partners experience the very best of the University, creating lasting relationships and expanding opportunities for future collaboration, learning and sporting excellence.

Abbie Ryan

Abbie Ryan has made an exceptional contribution to widening access to sport and wellbeing through the innovative Find Your Fit campaign. By creating an inclusive, engaging and highly visible introduction to Loughborough Sport, she helped thousands of students discover opportunities that matched their interests, abilities and goals. Her creative approach championed participation at every level, from recreational activity to elite performance, fostering a stronger sense of belonging and community. Through collaboration, ambition and a commitment to inclusion, she has helped create an environment where every student feels empowered to engage, thrive and find their place in sport.

Andy Wallace

Andy has demonstrated exceptional leadership in creating an inclusive high-performance environment where every athlete has the opportunity to excel. Through his proactive support for para-swimmer Scarlett Humphrey, he established the practical systems, collaborative networks and culture needed for her to thrive both in competition and university life. His commitment to adapting the performance environment around individual needs enabled outstanding sporting success while fostering belonging and confidence.

Coach & Volunteer Academy

The Coach and Volunteer Academy (CVA) has created an outstanding environment in which students can develop, contribute and thrive through sport. By providing accessible opportunities in coaching, officiating, leadership, events and community engagement, the CVA empowers students to build confidence, skills and lasting connections while enriching the wider sporting community. Its inclusive approach, commitment to personal development and culture of participation have enabled thousands of students to gain valuable experiences beyond competition.