Double Win For Team Derby At City’s Sports Awards!

Team Derby were announced as finalists in this year’s Derby Sports Awards.

The awards, which were hosted by Derby City Council last month, celebrated a number of achievements by athletes and coaches throughout Derbyshire.

Team Derby Badminton were declared finalists in the ‘Team of the Year’ category, beating both the Derbyshire Men’s Tennis Team and Belper Ladies Hockey.

Donna Kellogg MBE and Performance Sports Officer at the University of Derby, received the ‘Coach of the Year’ award following Team Derby’s successful win in the inaugural National Badminton League (NBL) in June this year.

Team Derby beat Loughborough with a 3-2 win, which resulted in the team being crowned the first ever NBL champions.

The current NBL team includes Rajiv Ouseph, Andy Ellis, Karin Schnaase, Gail Emms MBE, Chris Coles and Kate Robertshaw.

Donna, who is a former Olympic badminton player and Commonwealth medallist, said of her win:

I wasn’t aware that I was up for the award so it was a pleasant surprise. I’m very fortunate to work with lots of talented badminton players on a daily basis. To receive this award really is a testimony to them and their efforts over the season.

Ollie Shearer, Head of Sports Development at the University of Derby added:

Winning the first ever NBL title is a great achievement for Team Derby, but also for the city and the county’s sporting landscape so we’re delighted to be recognised by both. We hope this is just the start of many more successes to come in the future.

Councillor Martin Rawson, Derby City Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities and City Centre Regeneration, said:

I would like to congratulate all of the winners for their fantastic achievements and the inspiration that they provide. I would also like to wish them the best of luck as they are nominated for the countywide awards that take place later this year.