Mitre 10 MEGA Whanganui Secondary School Sports Awards nominations open

Sport Whanganui is calling on schools, sports clubs, coaches, teammates, whānau and the wider community to help recognise the region’s outstanding young athletes, with nominations now open for the 2026 Mitre 10 MEGA Whanganui Secondary School Sports Awards. 

Nominations close on Friday, 2 October. 

The awards, which celebrate excellence in secondary school sport across Whanganui, Ruapehu and Rangitīkei, will be held on Wednesday, 28 October 2026 at Whanganui Collegiate School. 

The annual awards recognise the dedication, commitment and achievements of young people who have excelled in their chosen sports over the past year. Whether it’s representing their school, region or New Zealand internationally, breaking records, or showing exceptional leadership, Sport Whanganui wants to hear about these achievements. 

Eligible achievements must have taken place between 1 October 2025 and 30 September 2026. Categories include Junior and Senior Team of the Year, Junior and Senior National Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year, Junior and Senior International Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year, Official of the Year, Coach of the Year, Disabled Sportsperson of the Year, and Contribution to Leadership. 

Sport Whanganui encourages anyone who knows a deserving secondary school athlete to submit a nomination. Sports clubs are also invited to make nominations from within their own organisations to ensure their achievements are recognised.  

Panel judge, Cath Cheatley says: 

“Every year we’re amazed by the talent, dedication and perseverance of young athletes across our region, but we can only recognise those who are nominated. We encourage schools, clubs and coaches to take the time to submit a nomination, even if you think someone else already will. 

“Don’t be shy about singing an athlete’s praises – that’s exactly what a nomination is for! Results are important, but so is the story behind them. The more you tell us, the better we can understand the athlete’s achievements.” 

Nomination criteria, award categories and the online nomination form can all be found here Mitre 10 MEGA Whanganui Secondary School Sports Awards – Sport Whanganui

Sport Whanganui looks forward to celebrating the achievements of the region’s secondary school sporting community at this year’s awards ceremony.