Central Football Hawke’s Bay are delighted to acknowledge the following people (and club) for their efforts within our game during 2023. These are the recipients of the Central Football – Hawke’s Bay Awards for 2023:-

Terry O’Neill Cup – Contribution to Coaching

Winner: Christine Smith

• Christine Smith once again demonstrated her passion for coaching during the 2023 season. Over the course of the year Christine took up roles with the Port Hill Girls Academy, was Hawke’s Bay FTC 12^th Grade Boys coach and Hawke’s Bay Girls 9-11 Pre-Academy Coach.

Terry Parkin Cup – Men’s Player of the Year

Winner: Jim Hoyle (Napier City Rovers)

• Jim Hoyle had an exceptional season in 2023, playing Centre-Back and captaining the NCR Central League side, securing National League qualification alongside his team mates for the second season running. His consistent level of performance during the season was a highlight.

Perano Cup - Women’s Player of the Year

Winner: Isla Cleall-Harding (Taradale AFC, Central Football NWL, NZ Under 16’s)

• Isla had a breakout season as Taradale AFC became the Hawke’s Bay representative in the Women’s Central League. Isla enjoyed an excellent season in mid-field, going on to represent Central in the Youth National League and Women’s National League sides. The season made even more special,  topped off with selection to the New Zealand Under 16 side that won the OFC Under 16’s to qualify for the next World Cup.

Nick Penny Cup - Administrator of the Year

Winner: Cheriette Ede (Havelock North Wanderers)

• Cheriette is a stalwart of the Wanderers committee over the last few years in the Treasurer role for the club. Her knowledge and support over the last season or two has been integral for the new senior committee members now leading the club with the largest member base in Hawke’s Bay.

Peter Tait Cup - Contribution to Football Award

Winner: Graeme Sole (Napier City Rovers)

• Graeme Sole is recognised for his long service to Napier City Rovers and his lead role in the running of the Napier City Rovers National Under 19 tournament over a number of years. The tournament brings opportunities for not only Rovers players, but teams from across HB  to compete in a National Tournament locally. The Under 19 tournament now includes a Women’s draw with 36 teams competing in 2023.

Ray Bowater Memorial Trophy - Junior Club of the Year

Winner: Eskview Juniors

• The 2023 Junior Club of the Year award heads to Eskview Juniors. With club membership, families and friends massively affected by the flooding in February 2023, the club worked tirelessly to support and assist those that still wanted to play football. The efforts by the club committee and local support meant that Eskview Juniors was able to offer free fees to players for the season. 

Article added: Thursday 18 January 2024