The deadline to submit nominations is on Sunday, August 30.

The awards recognise, celebrate, and honour the achievements and endeavours undertaken every day by those in the community who are passionate about sport.

The Dumbarton and Vale of Leven Reporter has been highlighting randomly-selected nominees to inspire people to nominate those they think are deserving of recognition.

This week the spotlight is on West Dunbartonshire Gymnastics Club, which has been nominated in the Team of the Year category.

Founded in 2011, the club has thrived over the last year in the sport of gymnastics, both in terms of membership and identity.

The club now has more than 70 members, nine qualified coaches, more than 15 volunteers, and operates over eight training hours per week.

Jennifer Davidson, development co-ordinator and coach, said she was ‘surprised’ by the nominated, but the awards would shine a light on the dedication of the coaches and the commitment of the members who help make the club a success.

Ms Davidson said: “It’s the commitment of the gymnasts which really keeps the club going as well as the support they receive from the dedicated coaching team.

“It’s some real recognition for the team work that happens with the club, not to mention the support from parents and members.” Ms Davidson said members gain different rewards for being part of the club.

She said: “Some people really enjoy the social aspect of being part of the club, with many members creating long-term friendships which can be formed over a number of years.

“Others enjoy the challenge of training, which is physically and mentally challenging, but they like pushing themselves and the coaching team encourage the team to be the best they can be.

“They are there to help members achieve their best. It club also installs a high level of discipline in its members, which is just part of how the sport operates, and people also find taking part confidence building, and good for their self-esteem.” Working in partnership with Sports Development, the club has created an established pathway from participation level gymnastics into the clubs development, intermediate, and competitive elements.

The club – which operates from the Meadow Centre with a satellite club ran from Our Lady and St Patrick’s high school – has also added a development academy which has doubled the number of members and a boy’s only section.

A range of disciplines are on offer, including, Men’s Artistic, Women’s Artistic, Display and Strength conditioning and flexibility.

In 2015 a team of eight gymnasts competed in its first national floor and vault competition in which two of the girls placed and gained promotion into the intermediate category.

The competition team are training to compete in competitions in August and November hosted by Scottish Gymnastics on a national platform.

WDGC has been praised for making a significant impact in West Dunbartonshire’s local communities as well by making gymnastics, accessible, affordable, and desirable.

Last year’s inaugural West Dunbartonshire Sports Awards was a huge success, attracting 37,000 votes from members of the public and decorating winners and runners-up across 12 categories.

In 2015, the awards promises to be bigger and better, culminating in a glittering awards ceremony at Clydebank Town Hall on Friday, October 30. To nominate someone you think deserves to be in the spotlight, visit: www.westdunbartonshiresportsawards.co.uk.