Sport NSW honours community sport and roll of volunteers

Individuals, sports organisations and volunteers have been recognised at the 2022 NSW Community Sports Awards, presented by Sport NSW, last night at Sydney’s at Commbank Stadium.

The Awards night, hosted by NSW Minister for Sport Stuart Ayres, recognised outstanding achievements and contributions to community sport in NSW over the past year which is largely carried out by a volunteer workforce.

Commenting on the achievements, Sport NSW Chairperson, Carolyn Campbell stated “community sport is critical to restoring and upholding the physical and mental health of girls and boys, men and women, of all ages.

“At the heart of community sport are the selfless volunteers who give up their precious time to ensure sports is played throughout the year. They are precious jewels within our sporting landscape who provide the framework and opportunity for our athletes to enjoy sport and to reach their potential.

“Moreover, sport creates social unity drawing people together from all different cultures and backgrounds within local communities to enjoy active, healthy lifestyles

“With World Championships, Olympic, and Commonwealth Games to be staged in Australia over the next decade, it is our magnificent community sport officials, coaches, clubs and administrators who will create the priceless foundation for our athletes to excel.”

The Community Sport award winners were:

Community Official of The Year
David Cooper, swimming

Young Official of the Year
Lucy Hungerford, Northern NSW Football    

Community Coach of The Year
David Bruce, Little Athletics

Young Coach of The Year
Fin Geraghty, Northern Suburbs Football Association    

Community Sports Administrator of The Year
Ian Smith, Taree Torpedoes Swimming Club

Volunteer Director of The Year
Michelle Biet, Sydney Junior Rugby Union

Community Club of The Year
Southend Boardriders Maroubra

Local Council of The Year
Central Coast Council

Community Event of The Year
Challenge Her Team’s Classic

The Awards evening also celebrated 19 recipients of Distinguished Long Service Awards. These Awards honoured individuals across a broad range of sports who have given exceptional service to their sport over a period of decades.

The Distinguished Long Service Awards:

Andy Halliday - paddle
Anthony Rudd - rugby Union
Brenda Zakaras    - Northern NSW Football
Chris Hayes - swimming
Darren Fowles - hockey
David John Bertenshaw - football
Howard McGarry - Little Athletics
Janet Morris - orienteering
John Beasley - Surf Life Saving
Kerry Campbell - touch football
Kevin Archer - Special Olympics
Laurie Keaton - athletics
Les Taylor - motorsport
Lindsay Wood - cricket
Mark Hepple - masters swimming
Terry Stewart - tennis
Paul Tayler - sailability
The Late Jim O'Brien OAM - wheelchair sports
Trevor Boyle - deaf sports

Speaking of these awards, Campbell added “volunteers such as those we have acknowledged with this prestigious Award are the backbone of community sport in NSW.

“They are the dedicated, hard-working individuals who contribute countless hours to enable thousands of men and women, girls and boys, to enjoy the health and social benefits of community sport each weekend.”

Image: Sport NSW Chairperson Carolyn Campbell addresses last night's awards.