Celebrating Excellence at the 2025 Hockey NSW Community Awards and Presentations Night

The Hockey NSW community came together last night in Wollongong to celebrate the people who make our sport thrive, with the 2025 Hockey NSW Community Awards and Presentations Night held at the Sage Hotel.

The annual event provides an opportunity to recognise excellence at every level of hockey across New South Wales. From grassroots volunteers and community leaders to coaches, officials, administrators and clubs, the evening honoured those who dedicate countless hours to ensuring hockey continues to grow and prosper throughout the state.

The night brought together members of the hockey community from across New South Wales and was made even more special by the attendance of several distinguished guests. Hockey NSW was grateful to welcome the Lord Mayor of Wollongong, Councillor Tania Brown, Deputy Secretary of the NSW Office of Sport, Adam Berry, Brett Davison from Polytan and Brent Livermore from Hawkesbury Brewing.

Throughout the evening, attendees reflected on another successful year for hockey in New South Wales and celebrated the achievements of individuals and organisations whose passion, commitment and leadership have had a lasting impact on the sport.

In addition to the Hockey NSW Community Awards, the evening also recognised excellence in officiating through the presentation of the 2025 Umpiring and Officiating Awards. Outstanding contributions within the Masters community were also acknowledged through the presentation of both the Men's and Women's Masters Awards.

The following award recipients were recognised for their outstanding contributions and achievements during the 2025 season.

Community Distinguished Long Service Awards

Andrew Parker

Andrew Parker is a highly experienced and respected hockey coach, administrator and mentor with extensive involvement across grassroots, representative and elite pathway programs within Hockey NSW and local association hockey. A founding member of HPHC and long-serving contributor to Campbelltown City Hockey Club and Macarthur Hockey, Andrew has played significant leadership roles in coaching development, representative program coordination, competition management and governance. His experience spans junior participation through to state and national level representation, including coaching and selecting multiple Hockey NSW state teams, assisting Hockey Australia Junior Indoor squad selections, mentoring emerging coaches, and contributing to Hockey NSW committees focused on game management and championship operations. Andrew has demonstrated strong expertise in athlete development, program delivery, talent identification, team management and stakeholder liaison, while also providing valuable service in club administration, representative logistics and coach education.

Lyn Bradley

For more than 56 years, Lyn has made an extraordinary contribution to hockey through umpiring, coaching, administration, and junior development. Her service includes 20 years as Treasurer of Regals Junior Hockey Club, 15 years as Junior Convenor of NDWHA, 25 years as a junior committee member, and more than 40 years dedicated to coaching players and developing umpires.

A Life Member of Newcastle Regals Hockey Club, Erina Hockey Club, NDWHA, and PSSA, Lyn has been a passionate advocate for growing the game, particularly encouraging young girls to get involved through come-and-try events, modified hockey programs, and school participation initiatives.

Ian Jessup

From his beginnings playing hockey in Wagga in 1974 to becoming a record-breaking figure at Macquarie University Hockey Club, Ian’s lifelong passion for the sport has left an incredible legacy across the hockey community. In 2026, Ian continues to hold the Macquarie club record with 782 games played and has recently been awarded Life Membership of the Sydney Masters Hockey Association.

For decades, Ian has also dedicated countless hours to preserving the history and operations of hockey organisations through meticulous records and organisational support, while mentoring and coaching players of all ages and abilities. His ability to connect with people, foster growth, and create lasting relationships within the game has made him one of the most respected and valued members of the hockey community.

Simon Thresher

From grassroots participation to international officiating appointments, Simon has made a remarkable contribution to the sport across local, state, national, and international levels. His dedication spans leadership, governance, umpiring, mentoring, and community development, with roles including President of the Port Macquarie Hastings Hockey Association since 2009, Hockey Australia National Umpire and National Umpire Manager, as well as longstanding service to Hockey NSW.

Simon has played a pivotal role in developing and mentoring umpires and officials across all levels of the game, helping strengthen officiating pathways and foster a culture of professionalism, support, and excellence throughout the hockey community.

Beyond officiating, Simon’s leadership has helped grow and strengthen hockey in regional NSW through infrastructure development, participation initiatives, and modernisation of association governance. His impact on the sport and wider community has been both significant and lasting.

Robert Laffin

Robert has made a significant impact across state, national, and community levels through an extensive coaching career spanning from 1997 to 2024. His roles have included NSW Under 16s Head Coach, NSW Men’s Head Coach, Assistant Australian Coach, Australian Defence Force Head Coach, Australian Country Under 21s Head Coach, and Australian Country Men’s Head Coach. These appointments reflect both his expertise and the trust placed in him across all levels of the game.

Beyond performance outcomes, Robert has consistently contributed to the growth and development of players and coaches, generously sharing his knowledge and fostering strong, positive team environments. His leadership and mentoring have helped shape countless athletes and emerging coaches throughout his career.

Robert’s commitment to the sport also extends to grassroots development, including his involvement in establishing the Molong Hockey Club and supporting the introduction of a synthetic turf, creating lasting opportunities for participation in regional hockey.

Jodie McIntosh

Jodie has been actively involved in the sport for many years, making a significant impact both on and off the field. Her work behind the scenes with officials and competition committees, along with her continued involvement in officiating and team management, has been invaluable to the hockey community.

She is also deeply committed to the development of junior officials, consistently supporting, coaching, and encouraging them to grow in confidence and capability.

Still actively engaged in the game today, Jodie remains a highly respected and important part of the hockey community, continuing to make a meaningful difference through her dedication, experience, and passion for the sport.

Community Administrator of the Year

Sheree Richards (Bathurst)

Sheree has played a pivotal leadership role in hockey across Bathurst, coordinating major Women’s Masters competitions and successfully delivering the Whole State Women’s Masters Championships involving 93 teams. Her ability to bring together associations, councils, vendors, volunteers and stakeholders has been instrumental in delivering high-quality events and experiences for participants.

A respected leader, Board Director, Life Member, manager, player and umpire, Sheree exemplifies dedication to community hockey and continues to make a profound contribution to the game in regional New South Wales.

Community Volunteer of the Year

Sally McPherson (Parkes) and Rodney Collier (Manning Valley)

Sally has demonstrated outstanding commitment to junior hockey through her leadership of junior programs, representative teams and community initiatives. Her dedication to participation growth, volunteer coordination, sponsorship and innovative competition delivery has had a significant and lasting impact on hockey in Parkes.

Rod has made a lifelong contribution to hockey, serving in numerous roles across both his club and association, including Club President, Match Committee Delegate, umpire, player, coach, and Lead Coach of the Hookin2Hockey Minkey Program. A passionate advocate for grassroots development, Rod has been instrumental in introducing children aged 4–7 to the sport, fostering a love of hockey through skill-building, confidence, and fun.

Community Official of the Year

Lachlan Walsh (North West Sydney)

Lachlan’s dedication to educating and mentoring young umpires and ensuring they are supported both on and off the field has made a meaningful difference to the lives of many young umpires across. Lachlan’s passion, care and commitment to strengthen umpiring in his own association including the Hills Hockey Club and Norwest Strikers and at all competition levels including Mens and Women’s state championships is testimony to his dedication to the sport across New South Wales.

Community Young Official of the Year

Charlie Monaghan (Newcastle)

Charlie has emerged as one of the state’s most promising young umpires, earning selection to State Championships while also mentoring junior officials and promoting hockey within his school community. His enthusiasm, leadership and dedication to continual improvement have already seen him recognised with multiple officiating awards, and his future within the sport is exceptionally bright.

Community Coach of the Year

Jack Elliot (Parkes)

Jack has demonstrated extraordinary commitment to coaching across all levels of the game, from junior development programs through to senior representative and premier league teams. His passion for player development, inclusive coaching approach and ability to create positive, supportive environments have had a profound impact on players throughout the Parkes hockey community. Jack’s commitment to mentoring emerging athletes and fellow coaches alike reflects the very best qualities of community coaching.

Community Young Coach of the Year

Molly Holst (North West Sydney)

Molly has made an outstanding contribution to representative hockey through her work with young and developing athletes in both outdoor and indoor programs. Her enthusiasm, positivity and player-first approach have helped create memorable and rewarding experiences for athletes and families alike. Whether building team spirit, supporting player wellbeing or travelling extensively to attend trainings and carnivals while balancing her studies, Molly’s dedication has been exceptional.

Community Event of the Year

Manning Valley Flood Recovery Day

The Manning Valley Hockey Association (MVHA) Flood Recovery Day showcased the incredible strength, resilience and spirit of the Manning Valley hockey community. Combining elite hockey, representative pathways and community fundraising, the event attracted hundreds of athletes, families and visitors while raising significant funds to support flood recovery efforts throughout the region. Importantly, the event demonstrated the powerful role sport can play in rebuilding community connection, confidence and hope during difficult times.

Community Club of the Year

Maitland Hockey Club

Maitland Hockey Inc has demonstrated outstanding commitment to participation growth and community engagement, particularly through the successful delivery of Hookin2Hockey initiatives supported through PlayWell grant funding. The club’s focus on creating accessible, welcoming and enjoyable opportunities for young participants continues to strengthen grassroots hockey within their community and provides a strong foundation for future growth.

Community Media and Communications of the Year

CYMS Hockey Club

CYMS Hockey Club has embraced community engagement through strong school partnerships, local promotion and an outstanding digital and social media presence. Through engaging content, player recognition, club storytelling and community initiatives, the club has successfully strengthened its profile and helped grow hockey participation across the Orange region.

Community Inclusion Award

Craig Turner (Sutherland)

Craig’s dedication to inclusion, participation and ensuring hockey remains accessible to all members of the community reflects the true spirit and values of our game. Through his leadership and advocacy, Craig has helped create welcoming environments where individuals feel supported, respected and connected through hockey.

Senior Female Umpire of the Year

Kristy Robertson

Kristy Robertson continues to set an outstanding standard in officiating through her professionalism, composure and dedication to continual improvement. Widely respected by players, coaches and fellow officials alike, Kristy has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment across high-level competitions and championship events throughout 2025. Her contribution to officiating development and the integrity of the game continues to positively influence hockey across New South Wales.

Senior Male Umpire of the Year

Zeke Newman

Zeke Newman has continued to demonstrate exceptional professionalism and leadership within the officiating community. Respected for his calm approach, strong communication and deep understanding of the game, Zeke has officiated at a consistently high standard while also mentoring and supporting the next generation of umpires. His ongoing contribution to umpire development and the broader hockey community is highly valued and greatly appreciated.

Junior Male Umpire of the Year

Lachlan Walsh

Through commitment, hard work and a willingness to continually learn and improve, Lachlan has emerged as one of the state’s most promising young umpires. Lachlan’s positive attitude, professionalism and dedication to officiating reflects an exciting future within hockey and serves as an inspiration to other young officials across the state. In 2025 Lachlan umpired the Under 14 Outdoor Nationals including the boy’s gold medal game and the Under 16 Indoor nationals’ boys’ gold medal game.

Junior Female Umpire of the Year

Anastacia Flack

Annie has demonstrated outstanding dedication to officiating through her professionalism, confidence and commitment to development. In 2025 Annie umpired at the Under outdoor nationals including the girl’s gold medal match and the Under 16 indoor National Championships girls’ gold medal match. Her willingness to embrace opportunities, seek feedback and support the growth of the game highlights a bright future ahead in officiating.

Official of the Year

Martin Courtney

Martin has demonstrated outstanding leadership, professionalism and dedication in supporting the delivery and development of hockey throughout New South Wales. In 2025 Martin was a judge at the Pro League fixtures in Sydney, Technical Official at Women’s Nations Cup, Tournament Director at the Under 18 Indoor Nationals, Technical Official at Hockey One fixtures and umpire coach at the NSW Under 18 field championships. His contribution has helped ensure State, National and International competitions and events are conducted to the highest possible standard while supporting athletes, coaches, officials and the broader hockey community.

Women's Masters

Karen Kennedy Award

Cheryl Sutherland

Cheryl Sutherland has made a significant and lasting contribution to Women’s Masters Hockey through her leadership, dedication and unwavering commitment to the growth and success of the program. Her passion for the game and ongoing support of players, teams and the broader Masters community exemplify the spirit of this prestigious award.

Di Cubbin Award

Samone Vennard 

Samone Vennard’s dedication, leadership and commitment to Women’s Masters Hockey have made a meaningful and lasting contribution to the sport. Through her passion, service and support of fellow players and officials, she has helped strengthen the Masters hockey community and foster a positive and inclusive environment for all involved.

Dale Hodges Award

Kerrie Nealon

Kerrie Nealon has demonstrated exceptional dedication and service to Women’s Masters Hockey through her ongoing commitment to players, teams and the broader hockey community. Her contribution, leadership and passion continue to have a positive impact across the Master’s program and are deeply appreciated by all involved.

State Service Award

Karen Kennedy

Karen Kennedy’s contribution to Women’s Masters Hockey has been exceptional and enduring. Through years of dedicated service, leadership and advocacy, Karen has played a pivotal role in shaping and strengthening the Women’s Master’s program within New South Wales. Her passion for the game and tireless commitment to the hockey community have left a remarkable legacy that continues to influence and inspire many across the sport.

Men's Masters

Lifetime Achievement Award

Noel French

Noel French has dedicated countless years to the development, support and success of Masters Hockey in New South Wales. His passion, leadership and enduring commitment have made a profound contribution to the hockey community and helped shape the strong Masters culture enjoyed today. This award recognises not only a lifetime of service, but also the respect and admiration Noel has earned throughout the hockey community.

2025 Player of the Year

Theo Gruschka 

Theo Gruschka delivered an exceptional season, demonstrating outstanding skill, consistency, leadership and sportsmanship throughout 2025. His performances and contribution to Men’s Masters Hockey have been of the highest standard and have earned the respect of teammates, opponents and officials alike.

Umpire of the Year

Christopher Teare

Christopher Teare has consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism, composure and dedication in his officiating throughout the Men’s Master’s program. Highly respected by players, fellow umpires and officials alike, Christopher’s calm approach, strong game management and commitment to maintaining the spirit and integrity of the game have made him a valued contributor to Masters Hockey across New South Wales.