East Auckland’s Athletic Excellence Celebrated at Howick Sports Awards

The vibrant athletic talent in East Auckland was celebrated at the annual Howick Sports Awards held on September 24, 2023, at the Howick Pakuranga Community Sports Centre. Hundreds gathered to honour local sports figures for their remarkable achievements and contributions to the community. The event, organised by Amanda Dyason and backed by the Howick Local Board, featured New Zealand netball legend Irene van Dyk as the guest speaker, who inspired attendees with her insights.

The awards commenced with the Administrator of the Year accolade, where Richette Rodger of the Howick Pakuranga Netball Centre triumphed over finalists Matthew Leach from Howick Gymnastics Club, Martin Ellis of Bucklands Beach Association Football Club (BBAFC), and Amy Edwards-Maas from BBAFC.

Next, the Masters Athlete of the Year award was presented to Ron Johnson, who was the sole finalist in this category. The spotlight then shifted to the Coach of the Year, awarded to David Bishop of Howick Gymnastics Club. Bishop was recognised for his success at the 2024 New Zealand Nationals, where he guided his gymnasts to gold and bronze medals. Meyer lauded his inclusive coaching approach and mentorship of young athletes.

The evening continued with the Junior Sportswoman of the Year, awarded to Jessica Ready of East Skate Club. At just 15 years old, Ready made history by becoming the first New Zealander to win a medal at the prestigious X Games, clinching bronze in the women’s street competition. Meyer noted her dominance in national competitions, including victories at the New Zealand Secondary Schools Skateboarding Championships and the New Zealand Skateboard Nationals.

Dwayne Li of Paradice Ice Skating took home the Junior Sportsman of the Year award. Li finished the 2024 figure skating season ranked fourth on the Junior Grand Prix circuit. His achievement is particularly notable given that he is largely self-funded, training while balancing school at Macleans College.

The Sportswoman of the Year title went to Marielle Venida of Pakuranga Athletic Club. Venida has represented New Zealand at various international events, including the World Under-20 Championships in Peru and the World University Games in Germany, showcasing her talent in the 100 metres and 200 metres events.

In a competitive field, Harlyn Saunoa of Pakuranga United Rugby Club was named Sportsman of the Year. Meyer highlighted Saunoa’s impressive year, which included his debut in senior rugby and selection for the Blues under-20s team, as well as representing New Zealand at the U20 World Cup. His performance, including a hat-trick against South Africa, has marked him as one of New Zealand’s promising young players.

The awards also recognised outstanding contributions from officials and volunteers. Brett Kimpton of Pakuranga United Touch was awarded Official of the Year, while Chris Day of Pakuranga Athletic Club received the Volunteer of the Year award.

The Junior Team of the Year award went to the Premier 1 Netball team from Howick College, while the Team of the Year was awarded to the Under-85kg Black Panthers of Pakuranga United Rugby Club, which won the New Zealand Rugby U85kg National Cup final.

Howick College was named College of the Year, and the award for Internationalist of the Year was presented to Amelia Walmsley of Howick Pakuranga Netball Centre.

In a significant recognition of community impact, the Club of the Year award went to Howick Pakuranga Hockey Club, which celebrated its 50th anniversary last year. The club has produced eight Black Sticks players, including five Olympians, and demonstrates a strong commitment to youth development with over 220 players across its teams.

The final award of the night, Service to Sport, was shared by Allison Tranter of Howick Pakuranga Netball Centre, Angela Jaksic of Howick Gymnastics Club, and Bruce Moran of East Skate Club.

The Howick Sports Awards not only highlighted the achievements of individual athletes but also the collective spirit of East Auckland’s sports community, celebrating excellence, inclusivity, and the promise of future stars.