End-of-Season Awards Evening 25

Pandas enjoyed an amazing presentation night at The Beat in Bodmin where over 60 members and supporters came together for an evening of celebrations.

It was perfect timing for the Pandas who took the opportunity to roll out the red carpet and toast their new sponsorship partnership with The Beat extending a warm welcome to owner Robin Askwith who helped present the awards

“I’m excited to build a strong partnership with the Pandas who like ourselves are a progressive community led group,” said Robin.

“It’s been fantastic meeting members. I instantly felt the great atmosphere and support shown for each other. It’s an exciting future for us both.”

Chairman Tiff, who worked tirelessly to make the evening a huge success was equally enthusiastic thanking her committee, umpires, coaches and the hard working volunteers. She went onto announce the annual awards and it was a night to remember for the club’s vice-chairman Karen who received the prestigious Panda of the Year accolade presented by last year’s winner Julie alongside the Chairman.

“Karen works tirelessly for the club and all our members,” said Julie. “She’s ensured that our steady pace sessions continue to grow. This is a unique group compared to other netball bodies in Cornwall. It’s highly valued by those not ready for walking netball but in need of a slower pace proving incredibly positive for physical and mental wellbeing.”

A poignant moment came when committee member Vicki stepped forward to present the inaugural Jim Luck award for ‘Fair Play’ in memory of her brother. Jim was an avid netball fan supporting Vicki on her netball journey including representing the Pandas and training to become an umpire.

“Jim loved the ethos of the Pandas and his award for ‘Fair Play’ fits in so well with our club,” said Vicki. “The ‘Fair Play’ award will ensure my brother’s memory is preserved and celebrated in his spirit for years to come. He was my greatest supporter and made me feel like anything is possible, to keep trying but to always play fair.

“This award is specifically for ‘Fair Play’ and the first recipient is someone who consistently plays in a fair and friendly manner. She follows the rules, is an amazing player, plays so elegantly, is a wonderful person inside and out includes everybody even if they are less experienced with patience and a whole lot of love. She is a credit to the Lanivet Pandas as a whole.”

A burst of applause greeted Vicki when she invited Hannah to come forward to receive the Jim Luck award for ‘Fair Play’.

“This goes beyond just winning and Hannah promotes the spirit of fair play, upholding it with dignity regardless of the outcome of the game,” said Vicki.

Lanivet Pandas Netball is dedicated to promoting sport, fun, inclusion and competition for all ages and abilities alongside a popular social calendar. This community club welcomes a wide membership aged from 16 to 70 plus participating in walking, steady pace, social pay and play and league netball.

The club are grateful to The Beat and to longstanding partners Tregullon Holidays, Williams Construction; Cornish Lime, Jason Bellenger Tree Surveys and Lanivet Inn.

Award winners:

Lanivet Bamboo Shoots league team:

Most Improved: Sarah Jane

Captains Player: Emma

Players Player: Hayley

Lanivet Pandis league team:

Most Improved: Elouise

Captains Player: Teagan

Players Player: Leanne

Strollers Super Six Series:

Championship winners: The Golden Girls - Sarah (captain); Sam; Ann; Gill; Marilyn; Catherine; Sue; June.

Reserve Champions: The Green Goddesses – Emma (captain); Eileen; Cheryl; Mandy; Sally; Jackie; Paula; Karen; Marilyn; Cath

The Jim Luck ‘Fair Play’ Award: Hannah

Panda of the Year: Karen