The North Coast Academy of Sport (NCAS) hosted its prestigious annual awards on Saturday 6th September 2025 at the Sawtell RSL, bringing together athletes, coaches, families, and community supporters to celebrate another outstanding year of achievement.
The event honoured the dedication, talent, and commitment of athletes across a wide range of sports, recognising not only performance on the field but also sportsmanship, leadership, and growth as individuals.
Regional Academies of Sport Limited (RAS Ltd) CEO, Brett O’Farrell, commended the award recipients and nominees, saying:
“Today we recognise the incredible journeys of our athletes, coaches, managers, and volunteers. Each award represents hours of commitment, resilience, and passion. The North Coast continues to shine as a hub of sporting excellence and community spirit.”
Major Award Recipients
· Darrel Chapman Memorial – NCAS Athlete of the Year: Lexie Brown – Athletics (NAMBUCCA HEADS)– Selected for the Australian team at the World Para Championships, Lexie has broken national records, achieved multiple PBs in sprint and long jump events, and continues to excel across junior and open competitions.
· Coach of the Year (Harold Kratz Memorial Award): Zenon Kowalczyk – Athletics (BALLINA) – Recognised for his leadership and vision, Zenon has guided a record number of athletes to state and national championships, while advocating strongly for athletics across the North Coast.
· Leadership Award: Tully Flynn – Netball (SAWTELL) – A natural leader on and off the court, Tully inspires with her energy, positivity, and encouragement of teammates, embodying the true spirit of sportsmanship.
· Chair’s Encouragement Award: Rio Luther-Barr – Surfing (BUNDAGEN) – A rising talent in Australian surfing, Rio has shown remarkable dedication and improvement, currently ranked 5th in the national junior series. His commitment, passion, and strong performances highlight his potential as one of the sport’s future stars.
· Volunteer of the Year: Tracey Rutten – Hockey (PORT MACQUARIE) – Celebrated for her outstanding dedication, Tracey managed four teams with care, organisation, and unwavering support, ensuring a rewarding experience for athletes.
· Indigenous Athlete of the Year: Malachi Canning – Athletics (CANIABA) – With remarkable success at regional, state, and national levels, Malachi has been selected to represent Australia at the Virtus World Athletics Championships and continues to inspire with his achievements.
· Athlete of the Year with a Disability: Lexie Brown – Athletics (NAMBUCCA HEADS) Recognised not only for her elite performances but also for her resilience, determination, and influence as a role model.
· Niki Taylor Memorial Award: Bronte Eady – Netball (THRUMSTER) – Honoured for her commitment, improvement, and leadership, Bronte has progressed to Division 1, becoming a respected and inspiring member of her squad.
Program Awards
In addition to the major honours, Encouragement, Most Improved, and Most Outstanding Awards were presented across Basketball, Golf, Golf Development, Hockey, Netball, Netball Umpires, Skate, and Triathlon – highlighting the depth of emerging talent across the region.
Looking Ahead
The event concluded with a strong message of optimism, as NCAS looks forward to the 2025–2026 programs. Trials are already underway, with the Academy set to welcome the next generation of athletes into its pathways.
O’Farrell added:
“The Academy’s role is to not only develop sporting talent but also to help build leaders and role models in our communities. With the support of our partners, coaches, and families, we’re excited for what lies ahead.”
NCAS gratefully acknowledges the invaluable support of our Platinum Sponsors:
– Regional Academies of Sport
– HIT Mid North Coast
– Triple M Mid North Coast
– HIT 105.5 Coffs Coast
– Triple M Coffs Coast
– NBN Television
– Southern Cross University
– Underwriting Agencies Australia
– NSW Government
– Clubs NSW
Their generous contributions are instrumental in driving the success of our programs and empowering our athletes to reach their full potential. We sincerely thank our Platinum partners for standing alongside us in supporting sporting excellence across the North Coast region.
The 2025 NCAS Academy Awards marked a fitting celebration of a remarkable year for sport across the North Coast.
