Defying the boundaries/ unsung hero.

DALE MATHIE - Winner DALE Mathie is a walking, talking example of the benefits of sport.

The Norton martial artist has used kick-boxing to improve his quality of life.

His self-esteem and confidence has grown massively since taking up martial arts and the constant activity has helped him to improve his fitness and lose weight.

What's more, the 13-year-old Blakestone School pupil has shown genuine talent and has already landed some major titles.

His grandma Angela Mathie said: "Dale started kick-boxing when he was having some problems in his life.

"Since he's done so he's never looked back. Dale has become a two-time World champion, European champion, British champion and is the WUMA Grand Champion. He has turned his life around and is starting to put something back into the sport by training other youngsters.

"Today he is a completely different boy, he has now got his confidence back, has lost a lot of weight and is much fitter than before. We are all so proud of him." Dale said: "Sport has changed my life. I train hard but now and again I will say 'do I have to go?' and its my Grandma who keeps me going..

"I also like helping other young people with their problems as well. I'm certainly going to stick with my kick-boxing but when I'm older I want to be a policeman, it's something I've always wanted to do."

STOCKTON SPORTABILITY STOCKTON SportAbility celebrates five successful years this year.

Countless young people have benefited from the club, pictured left, which takes place on Saturday mornings at Northfield School and Sports College.

Youngsters aged eight-18 who have learning and physical disabilities attend and thoroughly enjoy the sessions.

The club works closely with Stockton Parent Support and Stockton Leisure & Sports

Development team.

Coordinator Ruth Benson said: "The club is successful because we all work together: coaches, support staff, volunteers and leaders.

"We've had successes which we are very proud of including eight young people obtaining level one of the Community Sports Leaders Award.

"We're so pleased to be short-listed for this award, everybody at the club is so excited about it."

DON BRYDON ADOPTED Teessider Don, right, has been the secretary of Middlesbrough RFC for 30 years.

He moved to Middlesbrough from Tyneside in 1970 and soon forged links with the Acklam Park outfit.

Paul Johnson, who nominated Don, said: "He is a Corinthian and supports rugby of all ages, watching games and supporting the lads.

He's a true gent.

"Don is widely known and well respected on the Teesside rugby circuit and has been a great ambassador for Middlesbrough RFC for a long time.

"He is credited with producing the best matchday programme in North One, containing stories and match reports from the first XV all the way down to the Under-7s." Don himself admits he was "gobsmacked" when he heard he'd been nominated, adding: "It's really quite an honour."