ABOUT THE CATEGORY: This award recognises young people and groups of young people who have worked to promote physical activity, or young people who have excelled in sport. They have shown exceptional commitment, skill, and enthusiasm in sports or physical activity. The recipient could demonstrate not only athletic talent but also values such as teamwork, leadership, perseverance, and a dedication to maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. Whether excelling in competitive sports, promoting physical fitness in their community, or inspiring others through their passion for activity, they celebrate the positive impact of sports and exercise on wellbeing. This award recognises their achievements and the inspiration they bring to others through their dedication to physical excellence.
Find out more about our 2026 winners below.
Winner: Millie Hixon
Millie is an exceptional young athlete whose dedication and determination have made a major impact on golf locally and nationally. After more than ten years in the sport, she has become a confident golfer who not only excels personally but also creates opportunities for others.
A standout achievement is her successful campaign to change the rules at Wearside Golf Club, allowing women to compete in men's competitions for the first time - a milestone that highlights her leadership and commitment to equality.
Her performances are equally impressive. She recently competed in the Stephen Gallagher U18 Competition at St Andrews, finishing joint first, shooting the best round of the event and setting a new course record.
Millie has been selected for the England Regional s Squad for five consecutive years and represents the County in junior and women's teams. A two-time Junior County Champion, she has overcome confidence and coaching challenges, rebuilding her game with maturity and returning stronger than ever.
Highly commended: Kara Ward
Kara has built an outstanding sporting journey, showing dedication and leadership from a young age. She began playing football at five, joining Washington AFC's boys' team before progressing to Boldon Girls and later Leam Lane FC. She also gained experience through the Sunderland Development Day Release Programme and even earned a trial with the England Lionesses U16s.
At school she became a driving force in sport, volunteering daily at after-school clubs, managing the Year 7 and 8 girls' football teams and supporting other activities. Her commitment earned her the PE Award, Sports Leader Awards and the Headteacher's Award. Academically she excelled too, achieving a BTEC Sport Distinction with a perfect 300/300 score.
In 2024, a football injury stopped her playing, but she trained as a referee instead. She has since officiated more than 300 matches and is mentored by the President of the Sunderland Referees Association. Now studying a dual sport award in Sixth Form, Kara continues to referee school football and rugby - an inspiring young woman whose passion and perseverance shine through.
This award is sponsored by Everyone Active
Everyone Active is the trading name for Sports Leisure Management (SLM), which operates leisure centres in partnership with local councils across England. SLM Ltd was formed in 1987, managing just one leisure centre in the Midlands. Today, Everyone Active manages in excess of 230 leisure facilities and cultural services in partnership with more than 60 local authorities. These stretch from Sunderland in the north to Mid Suffolk in the east, Chichester in the south to Bristol in the south west. The company's growth is due to the ability to deliver well-managed leisure facilities and an activity offering which provides great value for money. Everyone Active aims to increase the participation of local people in leisure activities, advocating a minimum of 30 minutes exercise, five times per week. www.everyoneactive.com
