More than $50,000 in cash prizes is available to local sports clubs and volunteers after Viva Energy launched its 2018 Club Legend Award this week.
The 2018 competition follows the success of the Corio refinery operator’s inaugural Club Legends last year when 20 winners, finalists and their clubs shared the prize pool.
Viva Energy was excited about this year’s awards after fielding more than 150 entries in 2017, said refinery manager Thys Heyns.
“Viva Energy is delighted that our local community so enthusiastically embraced last year’s Club Legend Award,” Mr Heyns said.
“We’re really looking forward to uncovering more unsung heroes at sports clubs right across the greater Geelong region again this year.”
Club Legend Awards ambassador and Cats star Daniel Menzel was rapt to support a program recognising the importance of sports club volunteers and role models.
“As a junior playing AFL I was hugely grateful for the support I received from coaches, players, volunteers, family and friends and it’s great to see that support continuing today at clubs across Geelong,” he said.
“I know how many unsung heroes there are in Geelong sports clubs and this award is a fantastic way to recognise the support they provide the community.
“It’s a privilege to be a part of the Club Legend Award and I look forward to helping celebrate the contributions of the remarkable people who are nominated.”
The award was an important part of the refinery’s ongoing commitment to the local community, Mr Heyns said.
“The Club Legend Award is about recognising the remarkable contribution these inspiring role models make to their clubs and to the community. We are incredibly proud to be part of this great community and look forward to once again celebrating the amazing people within it.”
A panel including Mr Heyns will decide the Club Legend winners and finalists, while a public vote will decide a People’s Choice award winner. A presentation night is scheduled for 6 September.
The overall Club Legend winner and their club receive $5000 each. The runner-up and their club receive $2000 each, with the same prizes for the People’s Choice and $1000 for finalists and their clubs.
Nominations opened on Wednesday and close on 3 August at clublegend.com.au.
