All aspects of swimming was celebrated at the Manchester Sports Awards over the weekend with awards in Outstanding Contribution to Sport, Club of the Year and Outstanding Contribution to Sport in Manchester.
Broadway Community Development Group won the first award of the evening, Oustanding Contribution to Sport, after they took over their local pool and opening it to the community. The project is now making a profit and allowing people of all ages the opportunity to swim more often.
Club of the Year went to the City of Manchester Aquatics Swim Team who is led by Head Coach Mark Rose. One of their brightest prospects, Jessica Fullalove, has recently been named part of the British Swimming Podium Potential programme.
The final award of the evening went to both British Swimming and the ASA for Outstanding Contribution to sport in Manchester. In the last year, Manchester has hosted the British Masters Championships, the ASA National Age Group Water Polo Championships (U15) and the British Swimming Awards. Manchester Aquatics Centre is also home to the British Para-Swimming National Performance Centre.
British Swimming Chief Executive David Sparkes said: “Swimming in Manchester has shown how with a clear vision and strong leadership sport can change a city.
"Manchester’s programme is now one of the best in the World and with the hard work of the local coaches, volunteers and athletes, we will see Manchester go from strength to strength."
ASA Chief Executive, Adam Paker, added: “It is an incredibly exciting time for swimming in Manchester. The local teams continue to do a fantastic job inspiring more people to swim more often, supporting talented youngsters to achieve their potential, and holding events that showcase the best in aquatics.”