Greek Australian Kip Stavrou has been named co-winner of the 2021 Volunteer Director of the Year at the 2021 NSW Community Sports Awards.
Reported by The Leader, Stavrou, and co-winner Joe Dougall from Touch Football, were among 10 award-winning category recipients honoured at the ceremony hosted by NSW Minister for Sport, Natalie Ward.
Stavrou was recognised for his outstanding achievements and contributions to Martial Arts in NSW. Sport NSW Chairperson, Carolyn Campbell, congratulated Stavrou on his wonderful commitment to sport in NSW.
“Community sport has an unrivalled ability to transcend culture, ability and background and to bring people together… NSW would not be able to enjoy the activities they love without the dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers we celebrate tonight,” Ms Campbell mentioned.
“While COVID-19 has impacted our lives in so many ways over the past 12 months, the role of community sport has been more vital than ever, helping restore and uphold the physical and mental health of the NSW community,” added Ms Campbell.
Kip worked tirelessly to develop the World Martial Arts Alliance as the peak body for Martial Arts in NSW. When the Board of World Martial Arts Alliance (WMAA) realised the impacts COVID-19 restrictions were having on the sport, they set about designing a flexible strategic plan to support members.
Stavrou had regular contact with Sport NSW and NSW Health and held weekly Zoom meetings and/or phone calls with clubs to ensure they felt supported.
Through Kip’s good governance and dedication, the organisation has grown to nearly 1000 members and is now financially sustainable.
Source: The Leader
