A member of the Saracens Sport Foundation has been shortlisted for Premiership Rugby’s Community Volunteer of the Year Award.

With the Premiership Rugby Parliamentary Community Awards taking place at the House of Commons on Tuesday 4 July, a specially-selected panel faced the daunting task of whittling down the nominations to a final three for the prestigious gong that recognises those volunteers who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to the community through their passion, determination and dedication.

John Trigg not only volunteers on matchdays but also plays a vital role within the Saracens Sport Foundation with their Sarrie’s Track Club and Scrambled Legs programmes.

He faces stiff competition from Sale Sharks’ Paula Bradbury and Janet and John Miles of Bath Rugby for the gong.

And according to one of the seven judges Suzy Christopher, BT Charity & Community Director, any of the trio would be worthy winners.

“Each of the nominees are a testament to rugby and to their areas,” she said. “The time they dedicate to various projects is absolutely priceless.

“John [Trigg] is a very special person and his dedication to helping Saracens is incredible.

“Without Paula [Bradbury], women’s rugby in the Sale area would not have developed as it has.

“And then the support of Janet and John [Miles] makes such a difference to the young people in the Bath community. They are a crucial part of the club and are looked up to as role models.”

Every year hundreds of people up and down the country give their time to help run Premiership Rugby initiatives such as – but not limited to – Aviva Tackling Numbers, HITZ, On The Front Foot, Rugby 4 All, Something To Chew On, Move Like A Pro, and Urban Rugby Squad.

From going the extra mile to help youngsters in the local area, to getting more girls and women get into the game, these ground-breaking schemes all seek to help the community reach new heights both on and off the rugby pitch.

And Christopher is adamant that would be impossible without those that volunteer their time.

“Volunteers are the true lifeblood of rugby and sport in general, without these amazing people, community sport simply would not exist,” she added.

“Every single person nominated for this year’s awards has given up so much of their free time to go above and beyond, and help their communities.

“It was very uplifting to read about so many amazing people and what they have done all in the name of rugby and helping put a smile on so many people’s faces.

“To dedicate so much of their time to helping people and their communities just goes to show what kind of people they are.”

The winner of the award will be announced on Tuesday 4 July at the illustrious Premiership Rugby Parliamentary Community Awards at the Terrace Pavilion, House of Commons, and on Twitter via the @premrugby account.

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