Sport NSW has announced the finalists for the 2024 Sport NSW Community Sport Awards, with several volleyball luminaries receiving top honours. These prestigious awards recognise the outstanding contributions of volunteers who power community sports across New South Wales. The winners will be celebrated at a ceremony at CommBank Stadium in Parramatta on June 19.

Jenny Towers has been named a finalist for the Community Coach of the Year award, reflecting her exceptional dedication and impact on the NSW Phoenix program. Towers, a beacon of inspiration and guidance, has tirelessly worked to foster a love for volleyball within our community, mentoring young athletes of all skill levels.

Andrew Olsen, another standout from the volleyball community, is a finalist for the Young Coach of the Year award. Olsen’s dedication and his ability to connect with young athletes have made him a rising star in the coaching realm. His commitment to developing young talent has not gone unnoticed and has earned him this well-deserved recognition.

In the realm of athletic development, Vasilija Simunovic from the Southwest Sydney Academy of Sport has been also honoured as a finalist for Young Coach of the Year. Her contributions have significantly shaped the Academy’s volleyball program, nurturing young athletes and helping them achieve their full potential.

The NSW Beach Volleyball Tour has been selected as a finalist for the Community Event of the Year award. This vibrant tour, celebrated for its high-energy competition and community engagement, has become a cornerstone in the NSW volleyball calendar, drawing participants and spectators from across the region.

Sport NSW Chief Executive Stuart Hodge praised the finalists, noting the unprecedented number of nominations and the broad spectrum of sports represented. "It is fantastic to see such an extraordinary response from NSW community sports clubs and organisations, and we congratulate all finalists for their exceptional work over the judging period," said Hodge. He highlighted the crucial role of volunteers, stating, "It is because of their unflagging commitment that sport in NSW is the backbone of Australian sport from grassroots to the elite level."

As the volleyball community eagerly awaits the awards ceremony, the recognition of Jenny Towers, Andrew Olsen, Vasilija Simunovic, and the NSW Beach Volleyball Tour as finalists is a testament to their hard work and dedication to the sport. These accolades highlight the vibrant and thriving nature of volleyball in New South Wales. 

For all the information on the awards night and the full list of finalists - News - Sport NSW