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Official of the Year

2024 Community Winner - Eddie Soria, Athletics

2024 Performace Winner - Gareth Fowler, Netball

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Eddie Soria ANZ.jpg

Eddie Soria has successfully organised two National Track & Field Championships, trained over 25 new officials, and facilitated multiple grade advancements. He expanded his expertise to include road event course measuring and national technical delegate roles. Internationally, Eddie developed a World Athletics-endorsed rulebook app, greatly enhancing access to rules for officials globally. His 

leadership has improved local officiating standards and contributed to the global athletics community, making him a pivotal figure in the sport.

Gareth Fowler (3) (1).jpg

Gareth Fowler has once again excelled in umpiring at the highest levels. He officiated at the 2023 Netball World Cup in South Africa, where he was assigned to the semi-finals and the final between Australia and England. He also umpired key international events such as the Taini Jamison Cup, Constellation Cup, and Vitality Cup, including the final game of the latter. Domestically, Gareth surpassed 100 

games in the ANZ Premiership, including the final, and was named Umpire of the Year by Netball New Zealand. His dedication extends to mentoring local umpires and contributing to the Hutt Valley Netball Umpires Association.

This award recognises two outstanding referees/umpires/judges, one on a community-based level and one on a performance-based level. Achievements by nominees will only be considered if they have occurred during the qualifying period of 1 April 2023 to 1 April 2024.

 

  • Referee/umpire nominations are open to all on-field / off-field / court officials e.g. referees, umpires, sideline assistants, score bench officials, road marshals, commissaries

  • Only individual nominations will be accepted

  • Volunteers, paid staff, amateurs and professionals are eligible

  • This category is eligible for all age groups and gender identities

  • Performance level is considered to be within a sport played at a competition level nationally or internationally

  • Community level is considered to be within a sport played locally, regionally, competitively (as an amateur), or socially. It can be within a registered club or an unaffiliated sports group or team

  • Judges will also take into account involvement and commitment to the sport on and off the field. Any relevant examples of the nominee going above and beyond within their sport will be considered

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