District’s sporting success celebrated
Selfless service to sport saw Julie-Ann Hallett, Kevin Guest, Ray Kett and Ron House receive accolades at the Ingham Matamata-Piako District Sports Awards.
The recurring themes at the Ingham Matamata-Piako District Sports Awards were - dedication and passion.
Graeme Laing was not only named coach of the year but also took out the personality of the year title at the District Sports Awards held on Thursday night at the Tatuanui Hall.
Laing attended the Olympics in Rio this year whilst continuing his outstanding form with swimmers from the Matamata Swimming Club.
The Morrinsville Bulls Rugby League Club was named club of the year with growth to five teams and the creation of a brand new full size playing field at the Morrinsville Recreation Grounds.
A dedicated coaching team and committed players led to an immense season for the Waihou Senior A’s who were named team of the year.
After winning the first round of Thames Valley Rugby Premier League, winning the Dr Dunn and topping the points table in the championship round they crowned it in a 29 -14 win in the final to take the McClinchy Cup.
Matamata Piako District coordinator Lou Beer was very pleased with the high calibre of nominations, finalists and winners this year.
‘‘Sporting success is alive and well in Matamata Piako, our junior categories once again represented the wealth of youth talent coming through,’’ Beer said.
‘‘The judges found some categories very difficult to judge, which is great for sport and rec- reation in the district.’’
Eligible winners are now considered for the Brian Perry Waikato Regional Sports Awards on Thursday January 26 2017 at Claudelands Conference and Event Centre, Hamilton. 2016 winners: Administrator of the Year: Dwayne Barlow
Coach of the Year: Graeme Laing
Team of the Year: Waihou RF & SC Senior A Rugby Team
Junior Sportswoman: Tarryn Davey
Junior Calkin Sportsman: Cailen
Sportsperson of the Year: Matthew Stanley
Club of the Year: Morrinsville Bulls Rugby League Club
Secondary School Contribution to Sport: Charlotte Callaghan
Sporting Personality of the Year: Graeme Laing