Cornish Cricket Coach is South West's Unsung Sporting Hero

St Just Cricket Club's Chris Goninan has been named the BBC South West Unsung Sporting Hero for 2008.

Chris was selected by a seven-strong panel for his efforts for the club of which he has been a member for more than half a century. The 64-year-old coaches around 20 junior players every week and is also the club's secretary.
He was adjudged the winner for his dedication and tireless efforts which allow others to get the enjoy cricket.

"You do it because you enjoy the sport and you enjoy seeing youngsters enjoying the game and playing it at a competitive level. When you see some of them getting on and playing at the highest level that gives you tremendous enjoyment." he said.

He was nominated by St Just's third-team captain Gareth Hart who said: "He's really inspired me to get more involved in the club and do fundraising and help out.

"We had a meeting the other night on a miserable cold night and he was there inspiring people to get involved and raise money.

"He is fantastic and without him cricket would certainly not be flourishing here the way it is."

He was surprised when Spotlight sports presenter Andy Breare and a camera crew turned up at the St Just during a pre-Christmas Show, which he had organised, to present him with the award.

"I had no idea whatsoever about this and to receive this in front of the people who mean so much to me is fantastic," Chris said.

His prize included a trip for two to the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Show, held in Liverpool.

"That is an event where you get the elite of sport in this country - absolutely brilliant. And to be in a place like Liverpool where my brother lives means even more. I can't believe this is happening," he commented.

Through Chris's success, St Just Cricket Club is now eligible to apply for a £2,500 bursary to help with its continued improvement.

"We'll sit down and have a look at what we can do but our scoreboard always needs repairing so that may be really helpful for that," he said.

John Lilley, the head of BBC South West and one of the judging panel, said: "The dedication of Chris over such a period of time was very impressive. This award recognises people who are selfless in their efforts to make things better for others and Chris more than fits the bill. He, and the people of St Just, should be very proud."