Lotto and Sport NZ, in association with Sport Bay of Plenty, are launching a new volunteer recognition programme called Sport Makers.

The ‘Thank a Sport Maker' campaign is a three year partnership involving the Lotto Volunteer Foundation (NZ Lotteries), Sport New Zealand and Sport Bay of Plenty.

In the Bay of Plenty there are over 43,000 volunteers who freely give up 2.6million hours per year in volunteer time.

This partnership is about acknowledging and supporting our wonderful volunteers over a wide range of activities including Sport Makers who coach and manage teams, balance the books, maintain the venues, supply the oranges and wash the uniforms.

At the recent Volunteer Thank You breakfast held annually by Sport Bay of Plenty the Sport Makers Awards, the announcement was welcomed by those in attendance.

Alison Slade from the Rotorua Tramping & Skiing Club thought the idea was wonderful.

"I really enjoy helping out, it is very rewarding, but a thank you is always appreciated."

From Monday, Thank You E-cards can be sent to sport volunteers. Anyone can send a card at www.sportbop.co.nz/sportmakers

Dave Clarke, Sport Bay of Plenty Coaching team leader says it is a great chance to recognise our volunteers for their efforts - a simple gesture like this often goes a long way.
Each month Sport Bay of Plenty will select three recipients of the thank you cards from around the region to be awarded the Sport Maker of the Month award, along with a certificate and prize.

This then cumulates to the annual Thank a Sport Maker breakfasts which are held during the national volunteer awareness week in June each year.
'Lotto already supports New Zealand communities through the distribution of profits through the New Zealand Lottery Grants Board. Volunteers are the backbone of sporting and community organisations and we are excited about developing initiatives to actively support them through the Lotto Volunteer Foundation,” says NZ Lotteries' Chief Executive, Wayne Pickup.