A volunteer who has been dedicating his services to the game across five decades has recently been presented with the Services to Community Rugby League Award.
Michael Turner from West Yorkshire was recognised in front of a crowd full of friends, family and colleagues at the Heavy Woollen Cup Final last Thursday (22 August).
The local hero has been pivotal in shaping the game at all levels and has served as a secretary, coach, tour manager, coach co-coordinator, Chairman and everything in between.
For the last 29 years, Michael has been Chairman of the Heavy Woollen Committee whilst also holding the position of Club President and Director of Coaching at Shaw Cross Club for Young People. His passion and commitment to each of these positions has been a major factor for Rugby League growing and thriving in the Heavy Woollen area.
But his hard work doesn’t stop there, Michael has also coached and managed BARLA teams on multiple international tours with his teams engaging in coaching and development work in township schools to support the growth of Rugby League across the world.
RFL Director of Development, Marc Lovering, said:
“Everyone at The Rugby Football League would like to thank Michael for everything he has done to support Rugby League over the last fifty years.
“His passion and love for the game is evident through the many hours he has contributed to growing the game both domestically and abroad. His work delivering youth competitions should also be applauded.
“People like Michael are the shining lights who make Community Rugby League possible so it’s really important that we thank and recognise them for their incredible contributions.”
