North Herts rugby club founder given High Sheriff Sport for Good Award

The High Sheriff of Hertfordshire, Annie Brewster JP, recently visited the impressive facilities at the Emil Dale Academy in Letchworth to present one of the High Sheriff’s prestigious awards to the North Herts rugby club founder Mick Johal.  

Mick Johal, a governor of the Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation, was presented with a Sport for Good Award for Outstanding Contribution to Community Sport in Hertfordshire by High Sheriff Annie Brewster JP at a ceremony held at Emil Dale Academy on February 12. 

The award was given in recognition of Mick's work in providing young people with opportunities to engage in rugby and other sports. In 2012, Mick founded the North Herts Crusaders RLFC in Letchworth, marking the introduction of rugby league to the town. 

Under Mick's leadership, the Crusaders have grown to include two open-age rugby league teams and a junior programme. The club has also expanded to include netball, with four senior netball teams now competing. 

In 2023, Mick was appointed governor for sporting activities at the Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation. In this role, Mick has been a tireless advocate for increasing sports participation across Letchworth, with a special focus on engaging under-represented groups and enhancing sports facilities for young people. 

His work continues to inspire young athletes, creating inclusive and community-focused programmes that leave a lasting impact on the region. 

High Sheriff, Annie Brewster JP, said:  

"As a former international athlete and having served as a long-standing member of the Herts Sport and Physical Activity Partnership Board, I am truly humbled to present Mick Johal with the Grass Roots Excellence Award. Mick's dedication to grassroots sports in Letchworth and the surrounding areas is nothing short of extraordinary.  

As the founder of the North Herts Crusaders RLFC and a governor for sporting activities at the Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation, Mick has devoted his life to creating opportunities for young people to engage in sports, with a particular focus on rugby. His leadership has been instrumental in expanding sports offerings in our community, and the impact of his efforts is immeasurable. Mick’s commitment to fostering a love for sports, developing youth talent, and promoting inclusion has made a lasting difference in the lives of many. 

His work truly embodies the essence of 'Sport for Good,' and it is an honour to recognise him for his tireless contributions."