The BBC's Unsung Hero Award recognises the best volunteers in sport whose efforts are making a difference to our communities. The volunteers are nominated by local communities who have benefited from exceptional efforts. Local winners are selected in 15 regions across the UK. From among them, Sam was chosen as the national winner by a panel of experts from the sports volunteers sector. The award recognises all the time, energy, enthusiasm and ideas that Sam gives to help others be more active and feel more connected. 

Here’s the moment Sam found out she was the winner of the award.

BBC SPOTY host, Gary Lineker said "it might just be the the Zoom moment of 2021!"

And here is Sam's response.

"Have hope. Whatever happens, have hope. And please just keep going."

Read more about Sam's story and the Unsung Hero award here.

And find out about all the winners at this year's BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards here.