Christopher Ball

Christopher turned Bank Quay Bulls under-17s from no hopers, who were facing financial ruin into rugby league champions – just like he promised to do.

Despite them having no money, Chris turned the side into champions within three years.

The 43-year-old, from Orford, has been a successful coach for the past 17 years. Under Chris’ leadership and with much needed sponsorship, Bank Quay Bulls under-17s won the North West Counties League Division One title and also reached the final of the Carlsberg Warrington Alliance Cup.

Mark Simmons

Mark is renowned for bring the very best out of the boxers at Phoenix Fire Boxing Club. Over the 10 years that he has been a volunteer of the club, this knowledgeable and dedicated coach has made a big impression on a wide range of boxers, including those with disabilities as well as national champions.

‘Simmo’ always builds up fantastic relationships with his boxers and they, in turn, trust him.

His enthusiasm and passion for boxing is contagious and he contributes to some excellent sessions every week that are massively popular. As a result, the number of boxers at the gym has increased.

Dave Connor

Dave further enhanced his status as one of the true greats of wheelchair basketball by leading Celtic Warriors to the first division title last season.

He has won three national championship titles as the head coach of north west junior development squads between 2000 and 2008. Dave was also some player.

Suffering a spinal injury in 1988 did not deter him from continuing his passion for sport – it simply made him more determined to achieve more.

He went represented the Great Britain wheelchair squad in 1996 and 2000 and played for England between 1995 and 1997.