Presented by UK Director of HR Elisabeth Ibeson (pictured), Nick’s award was in recognition of his exceptional commitment to Bristol Bears Community Foundation and his dedication to driving up engagement between the club, its professional players and local programmes.
This inaugural award in Gallagher’s first season as proud title partner of Premiership Rugby recognises exceptional players who go the extra mile off the field to make a difference in their local community – in this instance, Nick’s transformative work with the Bristol Bears Community Foundation culminating in more than 500 hours of engagement from players and staff through his leadership and influence on the culture of the club.
Nick recognised the value of the community and eagerly volunteered his leadership skills in the role of Community Liaison, and has set a fantastically high standard for the next community club leader. In two years, he has facilitated a range of community activities that have enabled over 500 hours of engagement from players and club staff, including Bright Sparks, Dad Dancing, Super Sunday, Disability Journalism, Skills Masterclass, Mini/ Junior Presentations, St Peters Hospice, Project Zulu, Restart Rugby, Movember, Wheelchair Rugby, Reading Stars and Golden Memories.
On Nick’s nomination, Pat Lam, Bristol Bears’ Director of Rugby, remarked:
"As part of the club vision, 'To Inspire Our Community Through Rugby Success', all our players engage regularly with school projects and local clubs. Nick is exceptionally committed to delivering community engagement and he nominated himself to take on the role of community liaison. Throughout the season, Nick has been working closely with the community foundation and the club to organise players and events, provide encouragement and ensure our programmes run smoothly. Nick led the 'Clean Bristol' campaign, where the entire squad headed out in the city centre with litter pickers. He is a fantastic ambassador for the Foundation and Bristol Bears and we're proud of the tremendous work he has delivered."
Paul Morgan, Premiership Rugby Communications Director, said:
“Rugby players give so much more than just their all on the pitch for 80-plus minutes, and no one demonstrated that more than Bristol Bears hooker Nick Fenton-Wells, with his commitment off the field earning him the plaudits at the ceremony as he was named Gallagher Community Player of the Season.”
