The RAF Sport Awards, held on the November 7 at Halton House, honoured the remarkable talent, dedication, and spirit of the Royal Air Force’s athletes, teams, coaches, administrators and volunteers.
This prestigious event brought together the most exceptional contributors to RAF Sport, with each award recognising the commitment and accomplishments of individuals and teams who inspire others within and beyond the service.
Among the impressive line-up of winners, a special highlight was AS1 Darcie Muggeson Proud, who was awarded RAF Sportswoman of the Year. She has achieved remarkable success in her first year of service. A standout in RAF Table Tennis, she ranks in England’s top 50 female players and was invited to the English National Championships, though service commitments prevented her attendance.
Proud’s record includes an unbeaten streak at the Inter-Services tournament, winning in Ladies Singles, Doubles, and Mixed Doubles, and excelling in the RAF Championships.
Beyond her personal achievements, Proud has spearheaded initiatives for women in sport, including organising the first tri-service all-female training camp to boost skill and camaraderie among RAF, Navy, and Army athletes.
Her work aims to create a tri-service all-female British League team, reflecting her commitment to lasting impact. Additionally, she mentors emerging RAF players, investing in the sport’s future within the service.
Speaking of her win, AS1 Proud said: “Firstly, I would like to congratulate everyone who won their individual awards, the nominees, and everyone else working hard in the background striving to achieve their goals.
These moments in our sporting career prove that we are capable and that every step matters and every success, whether silent or personal, is yours, each victory deserves a celebration.
I was extremely honoured to receive the Sportswoman of the Year award, with the experience of simply being up there with the best sporting personnel in the RAF being a huge honour. The table tennis committee and I were extremely grateful for the opportunity to be invited and rated up there with the best.
Since joining the table tennis team, it has been my main aim to create more opportunities for women, both in the RAF and wider defence. I grew up in a sport which is heavily male dominated, always struggling to prove myself and my ability to the wider sporting community.
I am hoping that, by winning this award I have inspired other women to get involved, and not just in table tennis, but all the sports the RAF and defence has to offer.
I would personally like to thank the RAF Table Tennis team for all their help and support, both in pushing me forward through my career and giving me opportunities to continue playing at the highest levels.
The RAF Central Fund which has been supporting myself and the team in progressing through the sport, giving us the resources to enable each and every team member in being able to strive for the best.
I would also like to thank the family at 591SU, who not only allow me to play as much table tennis as I am able to play, but also for the support when a weekend of table tennis hasn’t gone the way I was hoping it would.
Finally, to my family back at home, who have supported each and every one of my achievements like it was the first.”
The Winners of the RAF Sport Awards 2024
The awards ceremony honoured the dedication and achievements of outstanding RAF personnel and teams:
- Sportsman of the Year: Cpl Michael Cutler, RAF Olympic Weightlifting
- RAF Sportswoman of the Year: AS1 Darcie Muggeson Proud, RAF Table Tennis
- Sports Team of the Year: RAF Motorcycle Road Racing Team
- Sports Coach/Official of the Year: Gp Capt Ray Morley, RAF Boxing
- Sports Administrator of the Year: FS Mark Collinson, RAF Coarse Angling
- Civilian Volunteer Award: Mr Steve Smith, RAF Table Tennis & Mr Ian Jennings, RAF Hockey
- RAF Central Fund Award: RAF Honington for their “Wellness Wednesdays” initiative
- Head of RAF Sport Award: RAF Ice Hockey Team
- Lifetime Achievement Awards: WO Peter Clowes (Basketball), WO Andrew Kutcha (Football), WO John Wilding (Rugby Union), FS Laurence Ramm (Athletics), Sqn Ldr Tim Ellis (Rowing), Wg Cdr Neil Hope (Football), Sqn Ldr Neil Thomas (Powerlifting)
The RAF Sport Awards 2024 highlighted not only the athletic prowess within the RAF but also the dedication of individuals who continuously strive to better themselves and support their teammates.
If you know of someone deserving a nomination for the 2025 awards, you can view the nomination criteria and information on how to put someone forward for an RAF Sport Award in AP3415 Leaflet 31, or you can contact 22gp-drs-info@mod.gov.uk with any further questions.
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