Southbury Leisure Centre's Anthony Bryan named as finalist for the Jan Spaticchia Special Recognition Award at ukactive awards 2022.
Anthony Bryan, fitness coach at Southbury Leisure Centre, has been shortlisted for the Jan Spaticchia Special Recognition Award at this year's ukactive Awards.
Anthony, 32, from Enfield, is in the running for one of the industry's biggest accolades, as trade body ukactive recognises the very best in the physical activity sector.
Held in partnership with Active IQ, the shortlist for the ukactive Awards 2022 includes fitness and leisure operators of all sizes; local councils; prominent suppliers; leading universities; sports bodies; and charities.
The Jan Spaticcia Special Recognition Award honours people who have made a continued and significant impact in the leisure industry. Anthony was partially paralysed from the age of six after suffering from a brain tumour followed by a stroke, causing him to lose the use of the left side of his body. Anthony forced himself to get into sport at the age of 16 and is now an instructor and trainer at Southbury Leisure Centre, a motivator and a para-athlete. Anthony has also represented England in the World Championships, winning two gold medals.
The winners will be announced at a glittering awards ceremony at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham on Thursday 30 June, with hundreds of leaders from the worlds of fitness, health, leisure and sport expected to attend.
Anthony Cawley, CEO of Active Life, commented: "We're really proud of Anthony, he is an inspiration to everyone. Anthony shows us all how exercise can change our lives and he thoroughly deserves this recognition. We wish him all the best for the finals."
Huw Edwards, CEO of ukactive, said: "We are delighted but not surprised by the number of incredible entries and stories we have received for this year's ukactive Awards, which is testament to the unquestionable resilience and innovation within our sector.
"We are extremely proud of all of our members, who have worked so hard in rebuilding the sector and our nation's health following the challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Congratulations to all the finalists and we look forward to seeing celebrating our industry at the awards ceremony this summer."
Jenny Patrickson, Managing Director at Active IQ, said: "I'm delighted to see this year's awards attract such a strong field of entries and send my congratulations to all the finalists.
"The standard has been very high once again this year and I would like to thank everyone who took the time and effort to put forward their entry for consideration.
"Active IQ is proud to once again be the headline sponsor for the ukactive Awards and we're particularly looking forward to seeing everyone in person at this year's event. Ahead of that, I wish all the finalists the best of luck for the next stage of judging."