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 Team of the Year:
Shanghai Softball - Thundersharks
The Sharks are basically the Patriots of the Shanghai Softball League: somehow, they’re almost always playing in the Cakey Championship. This year they were once again 2x champs – including winning back-to-back games in the final to take home the Cakey in the spring. They’re also an awesome group of people who help make Softball Sundays the best way to spend a weekend in Shanghai… unless you have to play them in the final.
Basketball - The Hop Project Aliens
For three years the Hop Project Aliens have been a staple on the men’s international league courts. After one championship, three finals appearances, and countless lineup changes they will be looking to regain the mens international basketball championship this spring. If they're not on the court, you can find them for autographs either Friday or Saturday nights at Found.
Cricket - Shanghai Cricket Club
Since it’s establishment in 1858, the Shanghai Dragons regularly tours and hosts teams around the world. In December 2018 they turned history pages by beating Hong Kong cricket club for the annual Bukhara Bell Memorial trophy match in Hong Kong. It took them 87 years for this victory. In May, Shanghai Dragons traveled to Hangzhou for the first inaugural game against Hanzghou Cricket Club (HCC). HCC won the first encounter by four wickets. In June SCC hosted Beijing Cricket Club (BCC) for the annual China Cup match, a regular encounter between these two clubs since 2006. The Dragons won the China Cup by 34 runs.
Football - Azzurri Football Club
Playing in the Shanghai International Football Leauge ( SIFL) since 1996 the Azzuri were originally thought an “italian” team, however the current squad has talented players from all over the world. But in some respects, we do all have a few things in common - our love for all the finer things in life such as, excellent food & wine, fancy football and beautiful women!
American Football - Shanghai Warriors
The Shanghai Warriors became China's first team to win three league championships, and the first to win back-to-back titles after capturing the 2018-19 American Football League of China title in a thrilling 40-34 overtime victory over the Shanghai Titans. The Warriors won away games in Hong Kong and Chengdu in a two-week span in December to reach the final, doing so with a roster that is over 70% local Chinese players.
Rugby - Dolphins
Heaps of involvement in 2018. The Dolphins played some rugby, won some games, lost some games and had a couple of tours. What really made the Dolphins the team of the year was our growth and tight knit community. The Dolphins touch team was formalised and the Dolphinettes become more and more active within the club, we also started children’s rugby sessions and in Movember raised over 18k for Men’s Health. Tries scored in all areas of life!
Women's Football - SWIFC
Shanghai Women’s International Football Club has become one of the leading teams to watch in Eastern China. Since 2016, SWIFC has steadily climbed up the ladder in the football community and recently won the Xiamen Women’s Tournament taking both first and second place for their A and B teams, and taking the top title in international play in 2018. Hands down, this is a resilient women’s team who are known for their scoring abilities, overall wins, and unstoppable defense from their two key goal keepers. In addition to taking first and second place in the Gulangyu Tourmanent, their goalkeepers were also awarded the “Golden-Glove” award for overall top play. This team is a leading example of sportsmanship, sister-hood, and incredible team performance. When these girls aren’t tearing up the field, they’re enjoying a drink or two post play at Cages.
Rugby - SRFC Pink Dragons
The SRFC Pink Dragons are going from strength to strength - these successful women continue to change the profile of women’s rugby in China. A Pink Dragon represents sportsmanship, absolute dedication, is fearless and ready to give it all for her team. This team’s mentality has attracted more players and resulted in a +30 squad for 2018. The undefeated win of the Xiamen All Women China rugby 10s Cup was the highlight of the year and the cherry on the cake that celebrates the camaraderie and togetherness which shines through in this team.
Rugby - Shanghai Silver Dragons
Shanghai Silver Dragons have performed in two different international locations, for two very different reasons. They were the only representative of Chinese mainland sport at the prestigious Hong Kong 10s, labelled as the ‘best tens tournament in the world’. Defending their 2017 success in winning the Plate competition, Shanghai Silver Dragons were proud to make their 8th appearance at the tournament. Looking East, Shanghai travelled to Korea where they defeated Seoul Survivors in the Yellow Sea Cup. This annual fixture is a highlight of both clubs who take turns to host their opponents.
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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