Australian cricketer Pat Cummins has been honoured with the Athlete of the Year award at the BBC Green Sport Awards. Recognised for his leadership in climate issues within cricket and beyond, Cummins, who captained Australia’s side at the Ashes, emphasised the importance of tangible actions in his acceptance statement.
Cummins, the founder of the Cricket for Climate foundation, actively contributed to sustainable initiatives, such as installing solar systems at local cricket clubs and hosting the inaugural Cricket for Climate Impact Summit. Expressing hope for a cleaner future, Cummins said, “To show that we’ve made a small difference, we’ve made some good actions, it’s not just about words, that makes me really proud.”
Innes FitzGerald, a cross-country runner from Devon, secured the Young Athlete of the Year award for her environmental activism. Fitzgerald’s decision to skip the World Cross Country Championships in Australia due to environmental concerns highlighted her commitment to raising awareness within the sports community.
Former Major League Baseball player Chris Dickerson received the Evergreen Athlete award for his extensive work on climate crisis and plastic pollution awareness. Dickerson, the founder of Players for the Planet foundation, expressed gratitude for the meaningful conversations that contribute to progress.
Forest Green Rovers Football Club (FGR FC) was crowned Elite Organisation of the Year. Known as the world’s first vegan football club, FGR FC continues to lead in sustainability, boasting a stadium powered by 100% green energy, no single-use plastics, rainwater collection, and electric team travel.
Rhino Cup Champions League (RCCL) clinched the Grassroots Organisation of the Year. This African league combines football and wildlife conservation, forging a connection between rural youth and rhino protection, offering both social and economic benefits.
Dale Vince, founder of FGR FC, expressed the club’s satisfaction in achieving the award, stating, “It’s a good feeling and a good example that helps to propel us. There’s recognition around the award and it helps to carry our message around the world. It’s all part of our progress.”
Matt Bracken of RCCL highlighted the league’s unique approach, saying, “The Rhino Cup Champions League is a football league brought to you by your local rhinoceros – and that is bringing so much. It’s bringing compassion, happiness, hope and love.”
