15 May 2026 |

Sporting talent and commitment celebrated at the 2026 Leeds Sports Awards

Famous names and everyday heroes came together last night as the Leeds Sports Awards returned to the Carriageworks Theatre for another standout evening celebrating the city’s sporting community.

Organised by Sport Leeds and Leeds City Council, the awards shine a light on the people who make sport happen across Leeds, from elite athletes to the coaches, volunteers, clubs and community champions who keep participation thriving at every level.

This year’s ceremony reflected that mix perfectly, with winners recognised across performance sport, grassroots impact, education, volunteering and community leadership.

Paralympic champion Hannah Cockroft CBE DL was named Disability Sportsperson of the Year, while the Sportsperson of the Year accolade was shared by Luke Whitehouse, Jake Connor and Samuel Lawman, all recognised for exceptional seasons in their respective sports.

There was also celebration for the next generation of talent, with Gabriel Shepherd taking Young Sportsperson of the Year and Oliver Porter awarded Young Disability Sportsperson of the Year.

At community level, Drighlington A.R.L.F.C. were named Community Club of the Year, with Liam Stanhope recognised as Community Coach of the Year for his work supporting participation and development.

Volunteers were also firmly in the spotlight, with Outstanding Sports Volunteer awards going to David Saul and Laura Love, acknowledging the time, energy and commitment they give to sport in Leeds year-round.

In the performance categories, Paul Moseley was named Performance Coach of the Year, while the Leeds Knights secured Performance Team/Club of the Year following another impressive campaign.

The Sporting Pride of Leeds award went to Leeds United Football Club, recognising their continued role in representing the city on and off the pitch.

Two of Leeds’ most respected sporting figures, Lizzie Deignan MBE and Danny Care, were honoured with Lifetime Achievement Awards for outstanding careers and long-standing contribution to sport.

Special recognition was also given to Brian & Jill Wallwork and Mike Tobin, who each received Special Contribution Awards for their lasting impact behind the scenes.

Rob Wadsworth, Chair of the Leeds Sports Awards, said:

“The Leeds Sports Awards is always a special night because it brings the whole sporting community together in one room.

“It’s about recognising achievement at every level, from international success to the people giving their time week in, week out to support others.

“Every winner and nominee should be incredibly proud of what they’ve contributed to sport in Leeds over the past year.”

Councillor Salma Arif, Executive Member for Adult Social Care, Active Lifestyles & Culture for Leeds City Council, said:

“One of the highlights of the sporting calendar, it is a real pleasure to celebrate the achievements of our sporting community from across the city, from Leeds United and elite professional athletes, to the incredible community heroes, all recognised together on the same stage.”