Shanghai sports friends, here we go again. The Camel and That’s Shanghai 9th Annual Sports Awards will take place on February 21. Once a year, we gather to recognize those who have truly made their mark on the city’s amateur sports scene: from the home-run hitters and KO punchers, to those who lift up their mates when all seems lost. They’re our friends, our family and, occasionally, our blood-thirsty rivals.
There are 16 awards across six categories in the general selection, plus three Under 18s categories with 12 awards to be won, with big prizes from F45 and REVO up for grabs. There will also be a raffle fundraiser on the night, with all money raised from that going to the Baobei Foundation.
And now, without further ado, here are the nominations for Coach of the Year:
Shanghai Softball - Alex Bryans
Alex Bryans has been the coach of the Thundersharkz softball team for the last four seasons, winning three of the Cakey Championship trophies along the way. Known for his leadership and charisma both on and off the field, the Shanghai Softball League would like to nominate Alex for Coach of the Year. He recently led the Thundersharkz to both the 2018 Spring and 2018 Fall Softball Cakey Championships before leaving Shanghai to further pursue his career in Beijing.
FitFam - Katie Arnold
In 2015 Katie helped start Shanghai’s free fitness community FitFam. Her active life and thirst for knowledge; drive self improvement and impacts many FitFammers, her PE students at Qibao Dwight High School and the F45 Training community. Katie selflessly imparts that knowledge to empower those around her to take care of their own health and well being; helping to push their limits, enhance their strength and help people of all ages move better safely. Her infectious smile and ever-evolving approach to fitness makes training with her fun, challenging and innovative and has been influential in the growth of FitFam over the last three years.
Women’s Football - Jordan Ercolani
She might hesitate to call herself a “coach”, but without a doubt, Jordan is the heart and soul of the Shanghai Women’s International Football Club. She organizes participation in tournaments, finds local competition, coordinates jerseys and equipment, schedules practices and social events, and works tirelessly to continue to grow the organization and create an inclusive environment for women athletes in Shanghai. She is an inspiration for all of us, both on and off the field.
Boxing - Stefanie Candela
Stephanie's boxing class not only is an inspiration to aspiring women boxers, but to boxers of all genders and will easily make you fall in love with the sport. Stefanie is one of the most passionate coaches most deserving of the sports awards..
Dolphins Rugby – Josh Stone
Being the fittest big bloke in the Dolphins team, meant that Josh had to incorporate fitness into most Dolphin sessions in the club’s early years. But this year, with weekly team trainings through F45 the Dolphin became as fit as ever. That, coupled with record attendances at Dolphins training, meant that Josh and the rest of the coaching team needed to step up their game! And they have! Watch out 2019!
Pink Dragons Rugby - Stephen Tema
Stephen Tema joined the Pink Dragons Rugby team with a big smile and warm heart, saying he would only ‘come give some advice and help the team on its way’. Despite his busy schedule and commitments elsewhere, he ended up doing way more than that – he fully committed to the team and with an inspiring vision , he rapidly developed a strong game plan that lead to the undefeated win at the Xiamen All Women10s. Not to mention his goal to beat SUS seems to be coming closer and closer. With his intense training mentality, but ever positive and motivating attitude, Stephen has proven to be an invaluable addition to the club. Stephen’s approach to the game has ensured that more experienced players continue to be challenged and able to improve whilst newcomers are welcomed and given the guidance needed to improve at their own pace. He would be an extremely well deserved winner of Coach of the Year!
How to Vote
Voting for the People's Choice Awards begins February 13 via WeChat. Follow us at Thats_Shanghai or by scanning our QR Code and message our account 'sports awards'.
Feb 21, 7pm, free entry. The Camel, see event listing.
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