The Contribution to Football or Futsal Awards recognise clubs, programmes, initiatives, and individuals
who have made a significant impact on our sport over the past 25 years. Nominations were open to
the WaiBOP football community, and were put forward by players, coaches, administrators, and
supporters who have seen the impact of their work first-hand.

Contribution to Football - Brendon Coker

Brendon has been part of Hamilton Wanderers since 1985, serving the club and wider WaiBOP football community in multiple roles. He played Northern League football from 1996 to 2001, coached the first team in 2002 and 2003, and chaired Waikato FC from 2010 to 2012.

As chairman of Hamilton Wanderers from 2004 to 2017, he led the club to its first National League licence and oversaw the development of the women's programme, which grew from two social teams to Northern League Premier level.

His leadership helped secure National League representation for the region and left a lasting mark on Waikato football.A Life Member of both Hamilton Wanderers and WaiBOP, Brendon has also contributed as a referee since 2017, continuing his long involvement in the game. 

Contribution to Football - Catherine Donovan 

Catherine has driven girls' and women's football at Lakes FC and across Rotorua. As Girls' Coordinator and a committee member, she runs 'Girls Have a Go' sessions, forms girls-only teams across age groups, and speaks up for clear female pathways. Her work helped establish standalone girls' leagues in the city.

Under her watch, Lakes FC now has about 800 members with 34% female participation, well above the national average of 24%. She has also contributed to club governance through the club's first four seasons, keeping decisions player-first and process-sound.

Catherine is recognised for sustained service, pathway building, and growth in participation that has changed the scale of the girls' game in Rotorua.

Contribution to Football - Dave Hall 

Dave Hall has given more than 30 years of service to Te Awamutu AFC, contributing across every part of club life. He has led committees, coached, maintained grounds, fundraised, mentored, and developed junior players.

Known for his steady presence and humility, he has long been the person others could rely on, stepping into any role when needed. His focus on junior development has shaped many players, fostering confidence, inclusion, and fair play.

Dave's influence extends beyond results. He has strengthened Te Awamutu AFC's culture of community and respect.

His commitment and example have left a lasting mark on the club and those who have played under his guidance.

Contribution to Football - Stephen Hine 

Stephen has been a cornerstone of Waikato junior football for decades. A former committee member of the Waikato Junior Soccer Association, he continues to serve as the dedicated coordinator of Knighton Junior Football Club.

Through his tireless efforts, Stephen ensures that football remains accessible to children at Knighton Normal School and throughout the surrounding community. For many years, Stephen played a vital role in the Waikato Junior 5-a-Side Festival, generously using his furniture removal truck to transport all 84 goals from the Frankton storage facility to Jansen Park in Hillcrest.

His commitment to the game extends well beyond logistics - Stephen takes immense pride in Knighton's home ground at Hillcrest Stadium. Whether it's spreading topsoil, planting grass seed, or repairing and repainting goalposts, he's often found working to maintain and improve the field in his own time.

Stephen's unwavering belief that every child should have the opportunity to play football makes him a true grassroots champion. His passion, dedication, and hands-on approach embody the spirit of community football.

Contribution to Football  - Shaun Kapua

Shaun is a prominent figure in Rotorua football. A lifelong Ngongotahā AFC member, he began as a junior and went on to play senior football before turning his focus to youth development. For more than 15 years, he has served as the club's junior coordinator, coaching thousands of players - some of whom have gone on to play professionally and for New Zealand.

A strong advocate for junior football, Shaun supports parent coaches and referees, promoting learning and enjoyment.

Contribution to Futsal -  Adrian and Jeanene Lysaght 

Adrian and Jeanene Lysaght have driven futsal in Rotorua for years. They run the school competitions from primary to senior, handling entries, draws, logistics, and delivery so every team gets a fair go. They recruit and mentor youth referees, give them training and support, and build confidence that carries onto the court and into life. They organise trials and trainings, travel with teams to regional and national events, and make sure players are prepared and supported.

Their work has lifted participation to more than 60 school teams. Players grow into referees and coaches, and a clear pathway now exists for young people to stay in the game. They give their time without fuss and keep the focus on the players. Futsal in Rotorua is stronger, more connected, and better run because of their effort.

We recognise Adrian and Jeanene for sustained service, youth development, and delivery that has changed the scale of futsal in Rotorua.

Contribution to Football - Anne Partridge 

Anne has been involved with her junior football club for more than 20 years, serving in key roles including chairperson and secretary. Her knowledge of both the sport and club operations has been central to its success.

She continues to lead despite her son finishing his playing days, managing club equipment, council ground applications, and the transition to the new Incorporated Society framework. She has also long supported the Saturday Mini Kicks programme while balancing work in the kiwifruit industry.

Anne's leadership has encouraged more women to take active roles in the club's management, helping create a committee where women now outnumber men. Her commitment and example have strengthened the club and its community.

Contribution to Football - Dean Tereu 

Dean joined Tokoroa AFC in 1990 and has served the club and community for 35 years. He made more than 300 first- team appearances and represented the Cook Islands national team between 1998 and 2002.

He revived Tokoroa's junior football programme in the late 1990s and established the town's Friday social football competition. Dean has coached across all levels primary, intermediate, secondary, and senior and continues to lead both the Tokoroa men's team and Tokoroa High School girls.

His long service, investment of time and personal resources, and commitment to developing football in Tokoroa have had a lasting impact on the sport in the region.
 

Article added: Tuesday 04 November 2025