Last year a piece of Sussex history was written, when the first ever Sports Federation Awards Ball was held. It proved to be one of the best social events that the university has seen to date. Over 250 sports federation members donned their most glamorous outfits and joined together in a celebration of all things sporting.

Those present will remember just how impressive the night was, from the pre-dinner drinks with a live orchestra, to the sit-down three course meal, and of course the traditional disco. There was also entertainment from what was surely one of the South East’s greatest illusionists. The Sports Federation Awards Ball was not purely about looking beautiful and getting hammered. Over 30 clubs joined together for the awards ceremony, recognising the effort and achievement of clubs and teams and the talent and commitment of individual sportsmen and women.

Among the awards that will be presented this year are Sports Federation Awards, Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year, Club of the year, Team of the Year and Most Improved Club. Those who receive these awards are all nominated by students, so if you know of any individual, team or club who deserve some credit for their work for the Sports Federation this year, come and speak to the staff in the Activities Centre. Nominations open on Monday 3rd February and close on Friday 14th March.

The Sussex Sport Awards Ball 2003 taking place at the Hilton Brighton Metropole Hotel on Friday 9th May and looks to be even better than before. A bigger venue has been chosen to accommodate the demand for tickets and whilst we welcome back old favourites from last year, there are also new acts in the pipeline waiting to be announced.

The Sussex Sports Awards Ball is an event that I can honestly say is not to be missed, unique amongst other Sussex social events, and guaranteed to produce a few stories for the grandchildren. It leaves a memory that stands out from your time at university. Tickets will be available from Monday 20th January from the Activities Centre, priced at £30. This includes a Pre-Dinner Babychampers, three-course sit-down meal and a special guest speaker. Also featuring is the Sports Federation Awards Ceremony, free professional photograph, and don’t forget the cheesy disco. Its going to be the best Sussex Sports Awards Ball ever!