Finalists for Sports Parents of 2024

Here were the finalists for the year of 2024 (in no particular order):

Finalist 1: Björn Sjöström, Gothenburg Wheelchair Basketball Club

björn sjöström nominee årets sportförälder

For the past 14 years, Björn has been deeply involved in the Gothenburg Wheelchair Basketball Club since his son started training there at the age of eight. His commitment has grown over the years. Björn has held several board positions, followed the team to both home and away games – from Stockholm in the north to Malmö in the south – and has taken photographs and posted content for the association's various channels. In the past five to six years, he has been the president of the association. He has also been involved at the national level to try to save wheelchair basketball, which is struggling for survival in Sweden.

Björn has gathered all of Sweden's wheelchair basketball clubs into an interest organization and raises the sport's issues within the Swedish Basketball Federation. His goal is for wheelchair basketball to not only survive but thrive in the future. This includes getting more children and young people involved in the sport. Björn wants more people to experience the joy that his son has had over the years. For our son, basketball has meant everything. It has helped him grow as a person and an athlete, and is an important part of his identity. Today, his son is a dedicated elite athlete with a professional career in Italy under his belt. Björn continues to be a committed and driving force for wheelchair basketball in Sweden.

Finalist 2: Stefan Lövgren, Karl Gustaf Brottning

To support his daughter's wrestling dreams, Stefan drives a whopping 90 miles every week so she can train and compete with the club. This is an example of the dedication he shows to be a present and supportive parent. But Stefan's involvement doesn't stop at driving to practices and competitions. He also helps with all the practicalities in the club – from taping and wrapping to leading physical training sessions and conducting the wrestlers' fitness and endurance tests. Additionally, he contributes to strengthening the wrestlers' mental strength, providing support when needed and encouraging them when they are struggling.

In addition to the practical aspects, he ensures to create memories for everyone in the club. Stefan diligently takes photos and videos to document both small and big successes, sharing them on social media to spread the club's joy and achievements. This creates a sense of community and enhances the club's familial atmosphere. Stefan also works hard to seek grants and financial support for the club. Thanks to him, KGB has gained new opportunities to grow and develop, allowing individuals to travel and compete internationally – experiences and memories they will carry with them for life.

As a parent, role model, and dedicated member, Stefan is an inspiring force for all wrestlers in the club. His tireless support, both for his own daughter and for the other wrestlers, makes him a candidate for Sports Parent of the Year.

Finalist 3: Maria Andersson, DFK Katrineholm

maria andersson nominee årets sportförälder

Maria dedicates a significant amount of her free time to various roles and tasks within DFK Katrineholm. In addition to coaching her daughter's team, girls born in 2010–2011, twice a week and attending matches on weekends, Maria also holds the role of the club's safety officer. This means that Maria is always there for the 250 active girls in the club when they encounter problems. She listens, helps, and takes action if the situation requires it. Since today's youth, especially girls, often face challenges at school and in their free time, Maria's role is both extensive and extremely important. In addition to being a coach and safety person, Maria also sits on the club's board.

In the summer of 2024, Maria took the initiative to create opportunities for young people aged 13-20 through the Camp Backa project. Backavallen sports field had previously been a place where young people gathered in the evenings, leading to extensive vandalism. Thanks to Camp Backa, vandalism was reduced almost completely, and around 70 young people have been employed during 36 Friday and Saturday evenings. Maria has been present at many occasions, leading the activities together with other leaders.

Finalist 4: Patrick Eriksson, MB/FIK Hockey, Flemmingsberg

patrick eriksson nominee årets sportförälder

Patrick is there around the clock for his club's youth activities. He comforts children, sells hot dogs, steps in as a coach when needed, sharpens skates, and more. But above all, he sees all children, regardless of the situation. For him, each child is an individual who should be included in all activities.

A special event that demonstrates his strong commitment is when a child once couldn't afford the equipment to participate in an activity. Patrick then gathered equipment, searched in his own basement, and purchased what was needed for the child to join. He also picks up children who cannot make it to practice on their own, always showing extra care for those facing challenges both on and off the ice. Patrick is there for the well-being of all children, making those who are struggling in life feel like champions on the ice. Thanks to his tremendous efforts, several children from different backgrounds have had the opportunity to participate in a world that is often not accessible to everyone, regardless of wallet or background. He becomes like an extra dad where needed, giving children a meaningful pastime and a strong sense of community.

Patrick does all this because he loves it. No one rejoices as much as he does when he sees how children grow and develop, following their journey with a genuine love for sports and equal rights for all children.

Finalist 5: Erik Hansson, GIF Nike, Lomma

erik hansson nominee årets sportförälder

Erik is described as the world's best dad by his children, but also as an "extra dad" and coach for his children's friends. He is at Lomma IP almost every evening of the week and on weekends, coaching his children's soccer team. This means Erik spends at least 20 hours on the soccer field each week. He is considered one of the best coaches in the area. But what is highlighted the most is how he is a role model and inspiration for many children and young people in the area. Thanks to Erik's commitment, many get the chance to play soccer in Lomma, but also find a place for community.

Finalist 6: Jan Palmér, Bollnäs Figure Skating Club

jan palmer nominee årets sportförälder

Janne has been a significant driving force within the Bollnäs Figure Skating Club since the early 2000s and has played a crucial role in the club's development. During his time, the club has grown from having barely 20 active skaters to over 60 today. His tireless work to strengthen the sport's position in the municipality, with a focus on safe and equal conditions, has contributed to the club being named the Club of the Year in Swedish figure skating and by the Bollnäs municipality this year. Janne has also furthered his education to become a "Figure Skating Manager," an important role ensuring that the technical equipment works in competition settings. His efforts have enabled the club to successfully host competitions year after year. Despite facing several difficult challenges, such as undergoing cancer surgery, Janne has continued his commitment to the club.

In addition to this, Janne is also the chairman of the club's board and vice chairman of the district board. His leadership and knowledge have had a significant impact on the club's successes and development. Janne began his involvement in the sport with no previous experience and with his tireless dedication has created a platform where children and young people have the opportunity for a meaningful pastime. His work is an example and an invaluable contribution to Swedish figure skating.

Finalist 7: Carola Johansson, Frillesås Rid- och körklubb

carola johansson nominee årets sportförälder

Carola is an invaluable force in the association and an important person in equestrian sports, especially in the discipline of vaulting. Her efforts go far beyond what is expected, as she takes responsibility for everything from financial reporting, contact with competition management, purchasing and manufacturing materials, to running the café in the clubhouse – which is an important source of income and a meeting place for all members. Her commitment is characterized by a solution-oriented approach and a care that includes everyone, not just in contexts where her own daughter participates. An example of Carola's great importance to the association is when the junior team faced major clubs with professional equipment in an international competition. When the team expressed a desire to have similar equipment, Carola bought some materials and made what was missing. This allowed the team to compete in the Swedish Championships with professional equipment, which gave confidence and joy to the competing youths.

Carola's efforts have been crucial in building an inclusive and safe environment where the active members can grow, both as athletes and individuals. She is a role model and an obvious candidate to be recognized for her enormous commitment and invaluable work in equestrian sports.

Finalist 8: Funda Erdogdu, Viby Basket

funda erdogdu nominee årets sportförälder

Motto: ”Framgång tillhör dem som inte ger upp, kämpar och tror på sig själva”

Funda is a great role model and an obvious candidate for this award. She shows tireless commitment and a genuine love for basketball and the people in the basketball association. She dedicates time and energy that few others would – even at the expense of her private life, such as her cousin's wedding or a close friend's birthday. Funda does everything to support the team during their matches and tournaments.

Funda is the supporter parent that every team dreams of having. She never misses a practice or match, whether her own children are participating or not. She ensures that all players get rides and support – both on and off the court. In the stands, Funda contributes to a great atmosphere with drums, cheers, and enthusiastic melodies. This not only boosts the team's morale but also inspires the entire audience and other visiting teams. Additionally, she takes care of the team in several other ways. She makes coffee for coaches and parents and helps create a safe and welcoming atmosphere. Funda contributes to building a community that extends far beyond the game itself.

Funda is also a passionate professional in her career as a study and career counselor, where she guides young people in several municipalities. She inspires them to feel secure, find their direction, and understand the importance of participating in meaningful activities such as sports.

Finalist 9: Sandy Pirvu Ottosson, Klippans simsällskap

Sandy Pirvu Ottosson nominee årets sportförälder

Sandy is an invaluable driving force for Klippans Swimming Club. She is always present, whether it involves training sessions, camps, or competitions. Sandy is described as a strong force in creating security, community, and commitment. Several times a week, she often sits by the poolside, ready to support both swimmers and other coaches. As a responsive and caring adult, Sandy also acts as an extra mother for many of the swimmers. She gives advice and tips, comforts, hugs, and ensures that everyone is seen – regardless of which group they belong to. She always keeps a watchful eye on the swimmers' well-being and makes sure they get the fluids and energy they need during training sessions.

Sandy also has a unique ability to build relationships, both with the swimmers and with their parents. She welcomes new families into the club's community and helps them feel at home. Additionally, she is a driving force in the club's board and works tirelessly for the association's development and long-term survival. At competitions and camps, her commitment and efforts are indispensable. She drives, prepares food, and ensures that everything runs smoothly, always with a smile. Sandy is a person who makes a difference every day – for the swimmers, coaches, and the entire Klippans Swimming Club

Finalist 10: Linda Åström, Björklöven U14, Umeå

Linda Åström Årets sportförälder 2024

Linda is an invaluable driving force in youth hockey and a true enthusiast who makes it possible for the team to function and thrive. She is like an extra parent to everyone on the team, creating security both on and off the ice. Her supportive presence is evident in everything from comforting during setbacks to celebrating each player’s successes. When the team goes on long trips, Linda is a natural source of security for both players and leaders. She is there if someone feels homesick or lonely. She organizes everything needed for the team to focus on the sport they love – ice times, away games, transportation, finances, and much more.

All of this Linda does entirely voluntarily, without ever asking for anything in return. She balances her commitment to the team with a full-time job, family, and everyday life, and she does it with incredible energy and dedication. Her work not only ensures that the sport can continue but also that the next generation of hockey players has the opportunity to grow – both as athletes and as individuals. Linda’s efforts go far beyond what is expected, and she is a true hero for the team and the entire association.