Three accomplished New Zealand athletes will be inducted into the Hall of Fame at the 2018 Ōtara Sports Awards on Saturday 1 December at Kia Aroha College.
Brothers Brett and Mark Leaver, both former Black Sticks, alongside former Black Fern Monique Hirovanaa, will each receive a lifetime achievement award before being inducted into the Hall of Fame.
Monique Hirovanaa played for the Black Ferns for 24 test matches and was named the World Rugby Women's Player of the Year in 2002. Brett Leaver and Mark Leaver played 157 and 42 times respectively for the NZ Mens Black Sticks hockey side between 1991 and 2002.
The judges’ panel selected the New Zealand sporting trio for their sporting excellence and success at the highest level in hockey and rugby, respectively.
“It’s exciting to announce our new class of inductees who flourished on the national and international sporting stage,” says, Lotu Fuli, chair of Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board.
“Brett, Mark and Monica are outstanding additions to the Hall of Fame. They’re individuals who demonstrated elite skill, hard work and dedication to their craft which saw them achieve individual and team success during their respective sporting careers.”
Brett Leaver says: “I’m truly humbled and honoured to receive this recognition as a proud Ōtara boy. I look forward to celebrating with Mark and our family and community at the awards.”
“It’s a privilege to even have my name put forward for this honour. To be recognised alongside my brother, Brett, makes it even more special," says Mark Leaver.
Monique Hirovanaa says: “Thank you to my whanau and the people of Ōtara for all their support. I’m proud to accept this award knowing that they have both been a great source of inspiration in my sporting career".
Nominations are still open
Nominations for the 2018 Ōtara Sports Awards will remain open until 4 November 2018.
To receive a nomination form, email otarasportsawards@gmail.com or direct message the event Facebook account.
An announcement of the list of finalists will be made in mid-November for the remaining 13 categories which include sportsman and sportswoman of the year, junior sportsman and sportswoman of the year, team of the year and coach of the year.
A supreme winner will be announced at the awards dinner on Saturday 1 December.
Tickets to the 2018 Ōtara Sports Awards cost $45 per person. Call 021 024 58674 for all ticket enquiries.
