E-cards say thanks to sports helpers

They do their work often without recognition, so the least that can be done is to get them some snazzy outfits or new gear.

Sport Wanganui is joining with the other sports trusts in New Zealand in launching a special "Thank a Sport Maker" campaign this week, which will see local volunteers given the chance to enter a monthly draw to win $500 worth of clothing and sports gear.

The campaign is part of a partnership with the Lotto Volunteer Foundation and Sport New Zealand where over $1 million worth of apparel and equipment will be awarded to "Sport Makers" nationally over the next three years.

"This campaign will recognise the outstanding work the sport volunteers do in Wanganui and our surrounding region," said Sport Wanganui chief executive Danny Jonas. "Every year it amazes me how fortunate and privileged our community is to have such a dedicated and loyal group of people. These volunteers 'Sport Makers' without doubt are our unsung heroes."

People can show appreciation to these "Sport Makers" by sending a thank you e-card, available on the www.sportwanganui.co.nz website.

Those who get a thank you e-card can then enter the monthly draw to win $500 worth of merchandise for themselves or their team.

This can be anything from netballs, rugby balls, soccer balls, team medical kits, cones and clothing. There will be 34 winners every month including at least one winner from the Wanganui region.

Silver Fern Katrina Grant has been named as the Sport Maker Ambassador.

"I wouldn't be where I am today without the help of a huge bunch of volunteers, going right back to my first day putting on a netball bib," said the Commonwealth Games gold medallist.

"Even at an elite level we rely on volunteers to make our games possible, with members of the score bench just one example.

"I'll be firing off plenty of Sport Maker thank you e-cards and I urge everyone involved in sport to do the same through www.sportwanganui.co.nz."