We are delighted to introduce the first SMA Excellence in Practice Award - a new award created to celebrate the outstanding work being carried out by SMA members across sports massage and soft tissue therapy.

Every day, SMA members are supporting clients, raising standards, developing their practice, contributing to their communities and representing the profession with care, skill and professionalism. We know that so much of this excellent work happens quietly, consistently and without fuss - but we think it deserves to be recognised.

The SMA Excellence in Practice Award is open to SMA members who wish to self-nominate and is designed to recognise outstanding professional practice in sports massage and soft tissue therapy. The winner will receive a £500 cash prize, along with a trophy, with the two runners up receiving a voucher for £50 to spend in the SMA shop.

We are looking for applications that help the judging panel understand your work, your standards, and the impact you have had in practice. This might include examples of your professional conduct, commitment to client welfare, contribution to the profession, ongoing learning, positive impact on others, alignment with SMA standards, or contribution to your local community.

You do not need to cover every suggested area in the application form. They are simply there to help you think about the examples, achievements and professional qualities that best show why your work should be recognised. The strongest applications will usually include clear examples rather than general statements, so please tell us what you have done, why it matters, and the difference it has made.

In your own words, we would love to hear about the brilliant work taking place across the SMA membership, so if you are proud of the standards you uphold, the impact you have made, or the contribution you are making to the profession, please do consider applying.

For the application form with entry details, and the terms and conditions click on the links below:

Closing date: 31st August 2026.

SMA Excellence in Practice Award Application

Terms and Conditions