The Isle of Man Sports Awards will be held in front of a live audience in 2021 and celebrate the achievements of the Island’s leading athletes, coaches and teams in a year filled with unprecedented challenges.
The event will also shine a light on the unsung heroes who have worked tirelessly to keep sport going despite the global pandemic.
Due to lockdown restrictions, the previous event was moved online for the first time, with hundreds of people streaming the awards from the comfort of their own homes.
Despite the 2020 sporting calendar being limited by Covid-19 restrictions, the evening sponsored by Microgaming PlayItForward, will return to the Villa Marina on 25 March.
Although the Island entered lockdown in March, the decisive action of the Isle of Man Government and support from Island residents meant competitive sport returned swiftly while restrictions in neighbouring countries continued.
Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, said:
‘It has been a hugely challenging year for everyone involved in sport, at all levels, and I am delighted that we have this opportunity to reflect and celebrate those who have succeeded despite adversity.’
‘The event will be attended by the Island’s brightest sporting talent, but will also honour the unsung heroes that have inspired others this year.’
Nominations for the 11 categories, including sportsman and sportswoman of the year, have now opened, with people encouraged to put forward names and details of their achievements by 29 January 2021.
This year the Under-21 categories will be combined and a new award in honour of Leonie Cooil will celebrate an individual or individuals who have demonstrated resilience, courage to others within Manx sport.
Kate Moughtin, Senior CSR Manager at Microgaming said,
‘Through Microgaming PlayItForward, we’re proud to be a part of this fantastic local event which recognises the many passionate athletes who make up our diverse sporting community. Sport is now very much back on the agenda, and I believe competition will be stronger than ever this year.’
Sarah Corlett, Executive Chairman of Isle of Man Sport, said:
‘It’s a fantastic opportunity for the Island’s sporting community to come together and celebrate the inspirational stories of the past year, especially with the countless hurdles overcome by so many.
‘I want to thank Microgaming PlayItForward for extending their sponsorship, as without local businesses and organisations providing support, sport on our Island would not be in the fortunate position it is'.