Sport Clutha’s Lifetime Services to Sport Award went to netball stalwart Liz Freeman.
The award was going to "someone who’s quietly but massively shaped sport and community life in South Otago for over 50 years", Sport Clutha regional co-ordinator Craig Gordon said.
Mrs Freeman had served as a player, coach, umpire, mentor and administrator, holding leadership roles with the South Otago Netball Committee, Umpires Association and tournaments, earning life membership to both the South Otago Netball Centre and Netball South.
"During the season you’ll find Liz at the court Friday nights from 5pm till 9pm, then back again Saturday morning making sure every game has an umpire," Mr Gordon said.
"A lot of our young umpires probably wouldn’t be there if it wasn’t for what she does."
Mrs Freeman, surprised to find she was at the event as more than a guest, said she was "blown away".
"I had no idea that this was happening," she said.
"It’s great seeing all the young umpires coming along and watching them grow up in something I love. I’m still passionate about it, that’s the reason why I’m still doing it and hope I will be till the day I’m just the granny in the office."
The evening also recognised Cross Recreation Centre volunteers and sponsors, with bronze, silver and gold certificates marking service hours.
The celebration concluded with an inspiring talk from Paralympian Holly Robinson.
"It was great to finish up with Holly — [she] had the whole room hooked from the start."
"She reminded everyone why we do what we do in sport and life— it’s all about hard work, resilience, and supporting each other," Mr Gordon said.
