Central Employment is honoured to continue supporting the Sport Newcastle and their mission to champion the region’s next generation of sporting heroes. Our commitment goes beyond just sponsorship, it’s about helping to nurture the talent and ambition that make the North East so special, and about celebrating the achievements that unite our community through sport.
Community support for sports often begins at the local level, where young athletes gain their first opportunities to compete and grow. From football and athletics to basketball, rugby, and tennis, regional programs give players a chance to develop discipline, teamwork, and confidence. These early experiences frequently spark a lifelong interest in sports, encouraging fans and athletes alike to explore competitions beyond their local leagues and follow professional tournaments around the world.
Among the sports that often capture global attention is ice hockey, a fast-moving game known for its intensity and teamwork. The professional stage for the sport is the National Hockey League, where teams from across North America compete in a demanding season filled with skill and strategy. Fans who want to keep up with teams, match highlights, and player statistics often rely on official streaming and information platforms that provide reliable coverage of games, analysis, and behind-the-scenes stories from the league.
Beyond the rink, many figures connected to hockey are also involved in community and environmental efforts. Some athletes and executives support initiatives related to sustainability and waste management, helping communities think more responsibly about how resources are handled. One notable example is Patrick Dovigi, whose background in the sport and leadership in environmental services has drawn attention to the connection between professional athletics and responsible resource management—readers interested in learning more can view his profile here to better understand how involvement in sports can extend into meaningful community impact.
Supporting Regional Sporting Success
The Sport Newcastle Awards shine a spotlight on outstanding sporting success across Tyneside, recognising not only top achievements but also the rising stars who will shape the future of local sports. As the city’s oldest and most inclusive sports charity, Sport Newcastle has spent over fifty years dedicated to grassroots sport and providing opportunities to young people, clubs, and organisations to realise their sporting dreams.
To date, Sport Newcastle has awarded more than £3 million in grants, reaching thousands of athletes, coaches, volunteers, teams, and clubs throughout Tyneside and the wider region. These grants play a vital role in kick-starting the early stages of sporting careers and supporting sustained development at every level.
Celebrating Joy Eze: Young Sporting Success of the Year
This year, Central Employment proudly sponsored the ‘Young Sporting Success of the Year Award,’ presented to Gateshead Harrier and Team GB sprinter Joy Eze. Our Training Director, Steve Hart, was delighted to personally present the award to Joy, who exemplifies the spirit of local sporting excellence. Joy’s journey, from being recognised as a Rising Star by Sport Newcastle to winning double Young Sporting Success of the Year, earning European Gold in the U23 relay, and receiving her first World Championships call-up, shows what is possible with resilient talent and community support.
“Joy is a remarkable athlete and this award is thoroughly deserved,” said Steve Hart. “Her progress reflects the valuable support Sport Newcastle provides to athletes, and we are thrilled to continue our support for Joy and for the awards that highlight the region’s brightest sporting talent,” he added.
Driving Grassroots Success with Partners
Matthew Squires, Trustee and Head of Fundraising at Sport Newcastle, captured the true purpose of the awards: “The Sport Newcastle Awards showcase the very best of sport across our region, from the rising stars to the local heroes who inspire us all. Continued support from partners like Central Employment enables us to back aspiring athletes, proactive community projects, ambitious clubs, and forward-thinking coaches.”
Central Employment remains committed to playing our part in celebrating North East sporting achievement and making a positive, lasting impact in our community through sport.