This week's deadline has been extended until September 30, and organisers would like to see more entries in the Under 12 Sportsperson of the Year, Sportsperson with a Physical Disability and Services to Sport categories. Services to Sport recognises the volunteers who work behind the scenes to ensure grassroots sport survives and thrives.

Awards organiser Bob Higham said volunteers often went unrewarded.

"They're an integral part of how any sport exists, anywhere," Higham said.

"It's their hours and dedication that makes for success.

"It doesn't matter what sport you play."?It doesn't matter what sort of volunteer a nominee is. The awards aim to recognise roles as varied as coaches, organisers or even those who do their bit in the canteen.

Higham was surprised at the lack of entries in the under 12 category.

"It's normally a category where we don't have any troubles filling.

"There are a lot of primary school kids out there doing well in a variety of sports."

A $3000 prize pool is up for grabs when the winners are announced at Rydges on October 31.

People who make a nomination will also go into a draw to win a $500 Harvey Norman voucher.

Nominate online by visiting www.sunrise-rotary.org.au/ sportsawards

For more information, email hastingssportawards@gmail.com or phone Bob Higham on 0437 269 719.