Over 590 young netball, hockey, football and rugby players were recognised at the Unison Medal Ceremonies, marking the end of the junior winter sports season for 2023.
The ceremony, held at the Napier Municipal Theatre recognises the hard work, discipline, and fair play demonstrated by young people on and off the field.
Former Silver Fern, Irene van Dyk and current Black Stick hockey player Kaitlin Cotter were special guests at the event.
Kaitlin said the ceremony is a great way to celebrate youth participating in sport and giving something back at grassroots level. “I enjoy attending community events like this when I’m able to, especially in my home town. When the kids’ faces light up as they receive their medal, it makes it all worth it.
“Playing hockey at the top level, the teammates I enjoy playing with the most are those who are great team players and try their hardest, so it’s fantastic to see so many children celebrated for showing these same values this evening,” Kaitlin said.
Eleven-year-old medal recipient, Amy Martin from Hastings Christian School, said she was thrilled to receive her medal. “I felt very proud of myself and enjoyed receiving my medal in front of lots of people … I love playing netball, it’s my favourite thing to do. I like playing with my friends at school and passing the ball on the court,” Amy said.
Unison General Manager Commercial, Jason Larkin said Unison are always excited for the annual medal ceremonies as they are a highlight for many young players across the region.
“15 years of our Greatest Supporter programme has contributed to the development, wellbeing and education of a generation of young people, and it’s great to now see former medal winners representing their region or country and back presenting medals to the next generation.
“The programme also serves as an invaluable platform to promote safety messages and educate young people about our electrical assets. We’re very grateful to the clubs and schools who nominated this year’s outstanding performers,” Jason said.
Unison’s Greatest Supporter Programme reaches over 12,000 children in Hawke’s Bay, Taupō and Rotorua through its involvement with junior rugby, netball, hockey, football and lake safety (Rotorua).
As part of this programme, Unison runs a variety of competitions and campaigns throughout the winter sport season to maintain engagement; and at the end of the season the Unison Medal ceremony is held, acknowledging whānau, coaches and players.
The ceremony also recognises one outstanding player from each team who has shown work ethic, discipline and fair play throughout the season.