CANI launched it new recognition awards at the end of last year to recognise the good work of volunteers within canoeing. Without the commitment and dedication of volunteers within all aspects of our sport a large majority of opportunities and activities would not take place. To support the work of volunteers the 2017 – 2021 Canoeing For All Strategy states that CANI are focused on supporting volunteer committee members, coaches and leaders and will be providing relevant training opportunities.
The following people have shown exceptional commitment to canoeing and have created opportunities and inspired others to enjoy our great sport. There are many others who are worthy of these awards and we hope to recognise them in future years.
The worthy recipients are:
 | Presidents Trophy - Nicholas Robinette Nicholas organised the 2016 Inter-varieties, which saw over four hundred paddlers compete in five disciplines across NI. This was a great event, which showcased canoeing across NI. |
Greeves Trophy - Afton Fitzhenry Afton was selected to represent British Canoeing at the 2016 World Cup. Afton performed exceptionally well and placed 6th in the C2 class. Afton is now a podium potential athlete with British Canoeing. |  |
Club of the year - Erne Paddlers Erne paddlers have provided a wide variety of canoeing activity to a wide range of ages and abilities. The club helped to host a wide range of events including sprint, polo, Blue Way 10k, progressive courses and much more. |
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 | Club coach of the year - Marion O'Dornan Marion is a coach with CAPS club and coaches a wide range of club paddlers. Marion helped with the set up of the club and is now coaching a few times a week. Marion is developing her qualifications and skills and helping other coaches to develop also. |
Children’s coach of the year - Tommy Thompson Tommy is a coach with Lisburn City Paddlers who heads up the junior section. Tommy is heavily involved with the junior paddlesport hubs and is great ambassador for junior development within paddlesport. |  |
 | Young coach of the year - Owen Tay Owen has been canoeing from a young age and has been involved with many clubs on his journey to becoming a coach. Owen is now an active club with Lisburn City Paddlers and the Junior hubs and enjoys seeing other young paddlers develop. |
The trophies will be presented to the recipients over the coming months in their club setting or at events.
Well done to all the recipients!
