Congratulations to the winners of the 2024-25 BF Community Awards.
The BF Community Awards recognise the hard work and commitment of clubs, coaches, fencers and volunteers for their contribution to fencing. An independent panel selected the shortlisted nominees and winners.
The recipients for the 2024-25 season have been nominated by members of BF, and an independent panel selected the winners. This year’s panel included Richard Cheetham (University of Winchester), Gayle Pink (Archery GB), and Paul Cummins (BF Participation Director).
After meeting with the panel, we are pleased to announce the winners and their responses as follows:
Performance Athlete of the Year: David Sosnov
Panel comments:
“The level of performance is outstanding at the very highest level. A gold medal speaks volumes along with beating a double Olympic champion at such a young age. David shows great character outside the performance setting and supporting others. What stands out is that in the drive for success the ‘true gentleman’ is ranked alongside a gold medal. In all this pressure and hard work what is not lost is being a good person. What next? The future looks so promising.”
Young Athlete of the Year: James Middlehurst
Panel comments:
“James has reached a level of performance which reflects incredible level of determination and application to attain such standards. James embodies what we look for in not just athletes but anyone wishing to fulfil their dreams. This is a truly impressive young athlete and one who has already achieved so much and so much to look forward to.”
GBR Coach of the Year: Oana Puiu
Panel comments:
“The positive influence Oana has had on those coached is reflected in their experiences as well as their achievements. To enable someone to achieve a goal they felt beyond them or one that has passed them by is evidence of commitment, caring, coaching knowledge but above all knowledge of that individual and their needs.”
Community Coach of the Year: Nigel Leavesley
Panel comments:
“Nigel has worked at all levels but especially the SEN groups and enabled two fencing clubs he is involved with to flourish. He embodies a culture of caring and inclusivity which are the imprint of his work.”
Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer: Cheryl Deamer
Panel comments:
“Incredible length of time committed to the sport over 25 years of voluntary work which has had an incredible impact on so many and led to a community club producing fencers at the highest level. The list of jobs which Cheryl has undertaken in her voluntary role show the breadth of this incredible contribution to the sport.”
Club of the Year: Paul Davis Fencing Academy
Panel comments:
“The scale and reach of this club are amazing across all disciplines and across all levels. It is committed to developing the sport throughout Hertfordshire and North London giving young people an experience they may have otherwise missed. The age range and number of qualified coaches, schools with established links and sessions provided show a fantastic community outreach and development structure.”
Congratulations once again to all of the winners.
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