Chris Goldsbrough took a big leap this year in leaving his job to volunteer full-time teaching Brazilian jiu-jitsu, a craft he has honed since 2000.
This passion and ‘extreme’ dedication to the sport formed the foundation of his nomination for Sports Volunteer of the Year, from Gaz Papworth on behalf of all students Chris teaches at the club.
‘He is a highly-skilled black-belt and spends a lot of time teaching, showing up and ensuring everyone is learning and having fun,’ Gaz said. ‘He has helped many kids overcome insecurities and gain confidence through learning a new sport.’
‘Chris is very calm, patient and quite possibly one of the best instructors in the UK, with years of experience – he is always available to answer any questions and he truly deserves recognition for all the work he does.’
In addition to his efforts for the Guernsey club, which needed to find a new home following Covid when they lost their old facility, Chris has also created a Channel Islands’ team by joining forces with members in Jersey.
Other nominators said Chris was a ‘true hero’ and provides tools and discipline for kids ‘to be good role models to others’.
Amanda Benwell has been nominated for the Sports Volunteer award
Andy Garnham has been nominated for Sports Volunteer of the Year
Charles McHugh has been nominated for the Sports Volunteer of the Year award
Dan O’Brien has been nominated for Sports Volunteer of the Year
The Guernsey Dynamics coaching team has been nominated for Sports Volunteer of the Year
Guernsey Mobility Let’s Go has been nominated for the Sports Volunteer of the Year award
Jo Norman has been nominated for Sports Volunteer of the Year
Katie Margetts has been nominated for the Sports Volunteer of the Year award
Mike Chapple has been nominated for the Sports Volunteer of the Year award
Steve Evans has been nominated for the Sports Volunteer of the Year award
Sue Duport has been nominated for the Sports Volunteer of the Year award
Yan Milner has been nominated for the Sports Volunteer award