People's Choice Award: Mike Delaney

One thing is certain when you talk to Mike Delaney, you always walk away feeling like the world is a good place to live in.

The Northland Men's National Hockey League team head coach exudes positivity - despite any set backs sent his way - and three years ago, the 21-year-old suffered a major setback, when his budding hockey playing career was tragically cut short following a tragic swimming accident.

Delaney broke his neck, and was totally paralysed down his right side initially, but after extensive physio, operations and several rounds of stem cell treatment in Germany, he gained back some of his mobility.

In 2009, Delaney joined forces with Northland men's coach Vicki Gribble as assistant coach, before the pair swapped roles last year to coach the province to a seventh place at the NHL.

At this year's NHL tournament in Wellington, Northland men placed sixth after a slow start, but showed improvements in areas across the turf and were competitive under Delaney's guidance.

Before his accident, Delaney played age group hockey for Northland and made his debut for Northland men's NHL side in 2004. He went on to play 25 games for Northland before moving to North Harbour to start a degree in sport and recreation at AUT.

While Delaney happily hits a ball around at training again these days, coaching has enabled him to stay involved in the game he loves, working with his home province, to whom he has huge loyalty.

Delaney's coaching colleague Vicki Gribble said he was a delight to work with, but the most important thing was that he wanted to give back to his home province.

"When Mike came on board, we realised there might be better opportunities out there for him, but we wanted to make use of his knowledge while we could. Most importantly, he acknowledged Northland Hockey had done a lot for him over the years, and he wanted to repay them.

Gribble said while Delaney had not really thought about coaching before taking the Northland men, but it was a role he would look more closely at continuing.

"He is considering coaching again next season and if he continues to pursue a coaching career, I think he will be one to watch," she said.

Delaney is hard working, committed and loyal to Northland Hockey, who always looks on the bright side of life.

To vote, email sports@northernadvocate.co.nz or text NAD and the initials of your nomination to 021 241 4568.

Voting closes on November 25.

The winner will be announced on Friday, December 2.