Sports awards: Finalists named for ASB Northland Secondary School Sports Awards

Whangārei Boys High School tennis player Daniel Hammond has been named as a finalist for the Northland Secondary School Sports Awards. Photo / John Stone

Northland's best secondary school sports stars are set to be recognised for their exploits in their chosen sporting arena.

From more than 300 nominations, 164 individual and four team finalists have been named to contend the annual ASB Northland Secondary School Sports Awards.

This year's awards evening will take place at ASB Stadium, Whangārei on October 25.

A total of 21 schools from Kaitaia to Wellsford will be represented.

Whangārei Girls High School leads the way with 35 finalists, followed closely by Whangārei Boys High School who have 34.

The awards acknowledge the outstanding sporting achievements of Northland secondary school students in codes ranging from volleyball, football and hockey to rodeo, spearfishing and waterskiing.

Over 35 sporting codes will be represented on the night. Code awards will be given to the top athlete, or top male and female in each code. The ASB Sportsman of the Year and Sportswoman of the Year will be named from all code winners. The Team of the Year will also be named.

For the first time in the event's history, Sport Northland, spearheaded by regional sports director Robyn Richards, has secured funding in the form of donations from local organisations, businesses and individuals to ensure all finalists receive a complimentary ticket.

"Our local community has been very generous. By working together we are hoping to ensure that all our finalists can attend," Richards said.

Each funder will be acknowledged with a table sponsorship so those attending the event will know who has contributed.

ASB Northland regional manager Glen Hardham said the event recognised the progress and dedication of some of Northland's up and coming athletes.

"The finalists in these awards are the sporting stars of tomorrow and ASB is incredibly proud to be a sponsor and to celebrate their success."

Tickets for whanau and staff are able to be purchased from Sport Northland reception or online at www.sportnorthland.co.nz

For a full list of finalists go to: http://www.sportnorthland.co.nz/newsarticle/68551