We use the word inspirational in sporting circles a little too often for my liking. I know I am guilty of this!

Yesterday Baroness Sue Campbell picked up another award for her contribution to sport at the SJA Awards ceremony. And I can’t think of anybody else I have worked with since I met her in a small office at Loughborough Univerity in the mid 90s as a hopeful parliamentary candidate, that has had such an influence on me and the entire sports sector as Sue.

She is truly inspirational. She is determined and effective. She is kind and humble. Sharing the journey down to London from Loughborough reminded me what a great story teller she is and funny. She has been remarkably successful. Through the Youth Sport Trust based in my constituency and then working together in Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). As we worked towards London 2012 she brought her leadership to UK Sport and transformed our Olympic fortunes. And in the last few years her role as head of Women’s football at the FA was rewareded with the Lionesses win this Summer.

Whilst Sue is more than capable of getting political and business leaders to invest in her dreams and ambitions, it has never been about her. Watch her enjoy the company of the most junior athlete or individual. Whilst it is systems she takes on (and usually wins) she does it for the thousands of individuals lives she has touched and improved because she passionately believes in the transformational power of sport.

I don’t think there are many more accolades available Sue can pick up.

I am pretty sure if you’re reading this you have as many happy memories and experiences of your time or even a brief moment with Sue Campbell. She will hate it but I’d love to share our combined appreciation of this genuinely inspirational leader.