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Steve Greatorex has won the coveted Spirit of Sport Recreation Award for 2025.

The Spirit of Sport and Recreation Award, formerly the Emeritus Award, has been presented for 22 years to inspirational volunteers in the sector who have dedicated their lives to helping get the nation active.

Steve has been a magnificent servant to the sport for almost 20 years. He began his career as a newly qualified teacher in the 1960s and quickly realised the lack of sport provision for disabled people. He dedicated his time to supporting disadvantaged and disabled pupils by getting them engaged in sport.

In 2007 he started Able 2, a space for disabled children and adults to try disability sports such as football, boccia, new age curling and more.

Steve earned his coaching badges and from there he helped to form Wakefield Whirlwinds, a charity focused on providing wheelchair basketball to people across Yorkshire. He has coached hundreds of players of all ages and abilities during his time, from beginner to elite, including players who’ve gone on to represent GB, but his passion is coaching junior sessions and supporting the next generation to become future stars.

On receiving the award Steve said: “I used to do a lot of adrenaline sports like climbing and rock climbing and as time has gone on I’ve found I was more and more limited in what I can do and wheelchair basketball has saved my life in that aspect.

“The biggest thrill I get is seeing the next generation coming through because without them the future of disability sport is in doubt.”

Jo Rutavičius, British Wheelchair Basketball Development, said: “It’s fantastic to see Steve receive the recognition he deserves with such a prestigious award. Steve has contributed so much to the sport and to the community, and has made a lasting impact.”

Header image: BWB / Ahmedphotos