Over 600 young sports people celebrated at the 2024 Unison Medal Ceremonies
Over 600 children in football, netball, hockey and rugby were celebrated at the Unison Medal Ceremonies held at Toitoi – Hawke’s Bay Arts & Events Centre last week. These ceremonies marked the conclusion of the junior winter sports season for 2024, recognising the discipline, hard work and fair play demonstrated by young sports people both on and off the field.
The final group to receive the Unison Medals were junior rugby players, who were presented their awards by Hawke’s Bay Magpies and Tui players. Among them was Isaia Walker-Leawere, a Hawke’s Bay Magpie recently called into the All Blacks camp, who highlighted the importance of recognising not only athletic talent but also team spirit and positive influence.
“It’s great to see these players being celebrated for the positive vibes they bring to their team. You can see the joy as the kids walk across the stage to get their medals. Typically, it’s the top try scorers or tacklers who get recognised at the end of the season, so it’s great to see this recognition for displaying the values at the heart of all sport.
“I was stoked to be a part of this ceremony again, it’s awesome Unison puts this on for the tamariki in our community,” Mr Walker-Leawere said.
Eleven-year-old Scott Haw from the Havelock North Rugby Club was super excited about getting a medal.
“I felt really proud accepting my medal with my family there. Playing rugby is my favourite thing to do, especially with my mates,” Mr Haw said.
Parris Petera, a Pulse player in 2024, was also thrilled to join the netball ceremony.
“I enjoy attending community events like this when I’m able to, especially when I’m back in the Bay. When the kids’ faces light up as they receive their medal, it makes it all worth it.
“As a professional netball player, I love playing with teammates who are great team players and give their all. It’s wonderful to see so many children being recognised for these values tonight,” Miss Petera said.
Unison General Manager Commercial and Regulatory, Jason Larkin said Unison are always excited for the annual medal ceremonies as they are a highlight for many young players and whānau across the region.
“Celebrating the tamariki for their hard work, discipline and fair play is really important to us. As a consumer-owned company, we’re extremely proud to support and showcase events and organisations that support the wellbeing, health and development of the children in our regions.
“The values recognised are not only important for sport but also for ensuring the next generation plays their role alongside Unison in powering thriving communities.
“Our Greatest Supporter Programme also plays a key role in educating young people about staying safe around electricity,” Mr Larkin said.
Thank you to Unison for making this happen. It is enormously important to foster & encourage these positive qualities & attitudes in our tamariki. One of my mokopuna was very proud to receive his medal on stage that night for his good efforts during the junior football season 2024.