Clubs are constantly communicating, both internally with members, and externally to the wider community. 

The internet and social media have massively changed club communication over the last 25 years. Results printed in the local paper and printed match programmes on the weekend have been replaced by websites, social feeds, emails, text messages and whatsapp.

The tools have changed, the but the principles are the same: make information clear, timely, and easy for people to find.

Good club communication not only shares the important information but helps the club feel connected by recording the people, the teams and the moments that matter.

These awards recognise clubs who do that well. 

The WaiBOP Awards Night 2025 was held on 18th October, 2025, in Hamilton. The evening celebrated winners from across the WaiBOP leagues from 2025, as well as a number of legacy awards, celebrating 25 years of WaiBOP Football.  

The legacy selections include players, referees and coaches who have made an impact between 2000-2025.

Best Club Photographer honours a photographer whose images reflect the spirit of football across all levels, recognising creativity, skill, and commitment to sharing the game’s story.

Winner Mark Brown Thames FC

Mark was nominated by three different people. He captured a range of photos that reflect the Thames FC season, from junior smiles to senior action.

Also nominated: 

• Matt Hunt, Otūmoetai
• Rochelle Weller, FCTM and Tauranga City

Best Club Website recognises a club website that is clear, current, and easy to use, and reflects all areas of the club.

Winner Tauranga City AFC

Tauranga City's website is easy to use, well maintained, and has content and information for all the club's members.

Also nominated: 

• Northern United
• Raglan FC

Best Club Programme or Publication recognises a modern club programme that captures people, stories, and values while acknowledging supporters and preserving the matchday spirit in an easy, accessible format.

Winner Melville United – “Melville Magic”

Melville United's matchday programme not only communicated team lists, but gave us a sense of the club, and who the key people and their thoughts were.  

Also nominated: 

• Papamoa FC
• Tauranga FC

Best Club use of Social Media recognises a club that uses social media to inform, engage, and reflect its community, with consistency and clarity.

Winner Te Puke United

Te Puke United was chosen for consistently producing original content - short, engaging match reports that covered teams across the club. Their social media was regularly updated and offered a good mix of post-game stories and information.

Also nominated: 

• Hauraki Plains FC
• Lakes FC
   

Article added: Thursday 06 November 2025