The AGM at the end of last month has made the awards for Club of the Year and Sports Personality of the Year.
The Club of the Year has been awarded to the North Staffordshire and District Chess Association (NSDCA) club Gables. Gables are a new club founded in 2023 by Chris Hankey and most of the players are juniors. The club has competed successfully in last season's NSDCA winning the third division and having a second team gaining valuable experience in the the fourth. This season with the introduction of an Under 1300 League, the club are entering four teams in the NSDCA competitions.
The Sports Personality of the Year, is Steve Whatmore who represents both Stafford and Rushall in four local leagues. He mentors the less experienced players and captains teams in both the Cannock League and NSDCA. Steve has been a candidate for this award for a number of years and his main achievements are with the Cannock League serving as both President and Fixtures Secretary. With his drive and common sense he was the prime mover in restarting league chess after the Covid lockdowns.
