Murray Bridge sports awards are back and bigger than ever

After a year off, the Murray Bridge Sports Awards are back and better, with more categories celebrating local sporting excellence on and off the field.

An extra four categories will highlight initiatives that increase female participation, support umpires and officials, and promote diversity and inclusion.

The awards will also shine a spotlight on the contributions made by dedicated coaches, volunteers, club leaders and supporters.

The 11 categories include:

• Sports Person of the Year (18-plus)
• Junior Sports Person of the Year
• Senior Sport Person of the Year (50-plus)
• Volunteer of the Year
• Sports Promotion Award
• Inclusion and Diversity Award
• Community Club/Association/Team Award
• Women and Girls Initiative of the Year
• Coach, Umpire or Official of the Year
• Young Leader of the Year
• Elite Sportsperson

Murray Bridge Mayor Wayne Thorley said the awards were an opportunity to honour the triumphs of local sporting leaders and achievers.

“Our sporting clubs bring people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities together with a shared interest in a love of their individual sports,” he said.

"We’re fortunate to have many clubs with excellent development pathways and dedicated coaches, officials and mentors who foster growth and help our athletes achieve excellence in a wide variety of sports.”

The awards would bring the community together to celebrate the achievements of sports people and the clubs, officials and teams that supported them, he said.

In 2023 seven locals were celebrated including netballer Nicky Smith, shooter Andrew Heard and bodybuilder Megan Knight.

You have until June 30 to vote for the best athletes, coaches, volunteers, leaders and programs in Murray Bridge.

Winners will be announced at a Sports Awards ceremony later in the year.

• Nominate: Fill out a form at forms.office.com or visit www.murraybridge.sa.gov.au.
• More information: Contact c.kempe@murraybridge.sa.gov.au or visit www.murraybridge.sa.gov.au.