AN IRVINE judo volunteer has gained national recognition for her selfless dedication to her local club.
JudoScotland chose Nicola Brawley from Irvine Judo Club as their 'volunteer of the year' award winner, not just locally but for the whole of Scotland
Whether it be as an event coordinator, competition organiser, first aider or even a mat cleaner, there seems to be no job she does not do.
Nicola is a volunteer who only has the smooth operation of the club on her agenda.
She also goes above and beyond for those who attend the club by organising the Judo Girls Rock session in Irvine, a participation programme aimed at bridging the gender gap in judo, particularly among young females.
This initiative not only promotes inclusivity within the sport but also addresses the broader issue of female underrepresentation in physical activity programs, both locally and nationally.
JudoScotland say that Nicola "epitomises how those support roles outside the dojo enhance the training within it".
A spokesperson added: "Thanks to Nicola’s work behind the scenes, the coaches can focus solely on their role as Nicola has everything else covered.
"JudoScotland congratulates Nicola Brawley for her outstanding contributions, enriching the judo community in Irvine and beyond."
After receiving the award, Nicola says that her love for the club and local community is what drives her.
She commented: “I’m delighted I won the award. I would like to thank our head coach Gordon Brawley for the nomination. I love what I do for my club and the community.”
Gordon heaped praise on Nicola who he says "always puts herself before others".
He added: "I’d like to thank JudoScotland for recognising Nicola's hard work over the past couple of years.
"She is a very hard-working individual who puts the club at the forefront of everything she does.
"Nicola keeps the club on a good financial footing by taking on the role of club treasurer, as well as club cleaner, club first aid woman, and volunteer without a second thought.
"She organises Christmas and Halloween parties, not forgetting Easter eggs. She is at the forefront when organising fun days and charity events.
"She is a workaholic and a good person who will always put others before herself, all for free.
"To quote one of her favourite sayings, ‘aye, the cleaner will get it’.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here