The annual TASS Stars Awards were held virtually today, where for the second consecutive year,boccia athletes had been shortlisted for awards. This year both Will Arnott and Beth Moulam were shortlisted.

Will’s nomination was in the ‘Most Determined’ Category, the same category that England Performance Group Athlete, Raf Young, won last year. The award goes to a TASS athlete who has overcome challenges or demonstrated resilience in order to pursue their sport and/or study. Something that Will has had to do this year following the unexpected loss of his mother, which turned his life upside down. In the last year, Will has prioritised his time continuing to develop his physical and mental focus which has put him in the mix for nomination at any Boccia UK selection meeting including for the Tokyo Paralympics, next year. It is testament to his success in managing all areas of his life that Will is also now being nominated in the 'Most Determined’ category.

In the ‘Most Committed’ category for a TASS athlete who has shown dedication to both study and sport, including excellent time management and efficiency in balancing demands, Beth Moulam was shortlisted. In addition to planning her academic and sport time, Beth also manages a 24/7 team of academic assistants, sports assistants and social care support which allows her to live independently. Having made the decision to put her education on hold to focus her attention on preparation for Tokyo 2020, in light of the current situation Beth decided to complete her studies before refocusing on Tokyo next year, and will be submitting her dissertation this August. Beth’s reaction to her nomination – “All TASS athletes are balancing studying with their sporting commitments. I’m incredibly honoured to have been shortlisted for the most committed award, thank you to The University of York, Sandra at Boccia England, Glynn at UK Boccia Federation and my sports assistant Christie. It has been a pleasure to have worked so closely with the whole Leeds Beckett team, especially Dane (S&C) and Ross (Sports Psychology). This flexible support and commitment has been instrumental in me being able to fulfil my sporting and academic dreams. And good luck to all the other nominees, especially Will Arnott.” 

When asked about what the nominations mean, our Talent Development Manager, Sandra King replied – ‘We are delighted that Boccia athletes have once again reached the finals of the TASS Stars Awards. The Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme helps athletes aged 16 and above to get the very best from their sporting and academic careers without having to choose between the two, and these awards recognise those who have been particularly good at doing so. Well done to Beth and Will for their nominations!’

The results were announced via Twitter on Friday 21^st August. A huge congratulations to Will on winning the ‘Most Determined’ category and congratulations to Beth on your final four shortlisting.