It is one of the most successful community programmes of its kind anywhere in Britain.
And now, Aberdeen’s Streetsport initiatives has been awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, after more than a decade of creating opportunities for underprivileged youngsters in Aberdeen to be helped by the power of sport.
The group, which has devised such groundbreaking schemes as Midnight Football sessions; was instrumental in the opening of Scotland’s first Cruyff Court facility in Aberdeen; and joined with Judy Murray to bring Tennis on the Road to the Granite City, has received the constant backing and support of Aberdeen-born football luminary, Denis Law.
And Streetsport responded to the news of gaining the honour by recognising the contribution of its tireless band of grassroots workers.
The organisation’s Mark Williams said: “We’re delighted that we have been awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service – and we are very proud of our volunteers.”
Aberdeen councillor, Martin Greig, added: “Streetsport has built up a great reputation over years of service to the city. The Queen’s Award is a welcome and very much deserved recognition of the tremendous amount of good work that the team has done for young people.
“The police, the fire service, the council and RGU have all joined together to ensure that Streetsport has been a positive presence.
“They have made a difference for the good and Streetsport has a great future ahead. This award is an encouraging boost that celebrates this important project.”
