Claire Riordan Honoured with Netball NZ Service Award

Claire Riordan, an esteemed figure in New Zealand netball, has been awarded the prestigious Netball New Zealand Service Award in recognition of her extensive contributions to the sport. This honour comes as she faces terminal health challenges, following a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer earlier this year. At the age of 80, Riordan’s dedication to netball has spanned over four decades, primarily in voluntary roles.

The award was presented to Claire by Dawn Dalley, president of the Selwyn Netball Centre, in a heartfelt ceremony at her home on Sunday evening. Claire expressed her surprise and gratitude upon receiving the accolade, stating, “I feel very humbled, I didn’t expect it at all. I’m sure there’s others who are far more worthy of it,” according to a report by The Star.

Decades of Dedication

Claire’s journey in netball began in 1983 when she joined the Greenpark Netball Club to support her daughters. Her involvement quickly expanded as she took on various roles, including playing as a goal shoot for nearly ten years. Throughout her career, she has held numerous positions at the Selwyn Netball Centre, formerly known as the Lincoln Netball Association, including vice president, secretary, and game officials committee member.

Her impressive commitment to the sport has not gone unnoticed. Claire received a SNC Service Award in 2000 and was granted life membership in 2004. Furthermore, she served as chair of Canterbury Country Netball from 1993 to 1998 and became a representative organiser for the Canterbury Netball Union in 1998. Her leadership extended beyond regional borders, training bench officials to zone level and serving as an official for ANZ Premiership matches.

A Legacy of Leadership and Friendship

Claire’s daughter, Antonia Riordan, shared insights into her mother’s declining health, noting that doctors have indicated she is “nearing the end.” Despite her condition, Claire remains deeply connected to the sport, following all games of the Silver Ferns, New Zealand’s national netball team. Antonia emphasised her mother’s profound impact: “Her leadership, compassion, and dedicated service has lifted so many, and her legacy will continue to inspire for years to come.”

In addition to her extensive work in netball, Claire served as a librarian at Lincoln University from the early 1980s and played a crucial role in establishing the Lincoln University Netball Club. She has been pivotal in fostering an environment of achievement and camaraderie, reflecting her passion for the sport and the community it nurtures.

Claire’s contributions were formally recognised once again when she received the Administrator of the Year award in 2021 and life membership of Lincoln University Sports earlier this year. Her influence on the sport is evident, with many expressing gratitude for her unwavering commitment and mentorship.

While Claire cherishes the friendships cultivated through her involvement in netball, she remains modest about her achievements. “It doesn’t take just one person, there are many others that have worked alongside me,” she remarked, highlighting the collaborative spirit that has defined her decades of service.

As Claire navigates her health challenges, her remarkable legacy in netball serves as an inspiration to many in the community. The Netball New Zealand Service Award stands as a testament to her lifelong dedication, ensuring that her contributions to the sport will be remembered for years to come.