Recognising Excellence in Local Sport
Do you know a local athlete, coach, volunteer, or team making a big impact in community sport?
Now’s the time to nominate them for the Cumberland Mayoral Sports Awards!
Nominations
Nominations closed on Sunday 1 February 2026.
Category Winners
Junior Sportsperson of the Year - Mia Er
Mia is an outstanding junior athlete and long-term resident of Greystanes, who began taekwondo at the age of six. Since 2020, Mia has been competing at a national level and in 2025 was selected to represent Australia at the World Cadet Taekwondo Championships in Fujairah, UAE. She participated in an elite training tour in South Korea with the Australian National Team and at the 2025 Chuncheon Korea Open she reached the quarter-finals individually and contributed to Team Australian winning a gold medal.
Team of the Year - U14's Merrylands Rams Rugby
he 2025 season brought challenges to the U14’s Merrylands Rams team. After assessment of player development and physical capability, the team were graded in Division 2, a short time later the Association regraded the team to Division 1. Moving into a higher Division raised concerns regarding the disparity in physicality, maturity and experience between the two Divisions. Despite facing physical and mental challenges, the players who remained continued to play out of loyalty, friendship, commitment and genuine love of the game, even as scores reached extreme margins.
Coach of the Year - Kyle Bruce
Over the past two years, Kyle has poured his energy into becoming an exceptional weightlifting coach and built a thriving coaching business. Kyle represented Australia at the Paris 2024 Olympics, and he has continued to excel—recently earning his International Coaching License to guide Australian senior athletes on the international stage. He coaches Uplift Weightlifting Club in Lidcombe, supports the New South Wales Weightlifting Team, and still finds time to help coach fitness in local schools.
Volunteer/Administrator of the Year - Greg Wark
Greg is the founder and long serving Club Secretary of Guildford McCredie Uniting Soccer Club. Since 1999, Greg has grown the club from five teams to 24, supporting more than 300 players and proudly reflecting the diversity of the local community. For over two decades, Greg has coached men’s, women’s, and junior teams, championing player development, inclusion, and community spirit. Greg’s contribution extends far beyond his own club. Within the Churches Football Association, he has served as SixaSide Coordinator, NSW City coach, a referee with more than 1,700 matches, a Management Committee member, and a guardian of the association’s history.
Sporting Organisation of the Year - Berala-Carramar Hardcourt Tennis Association.
Established in 1927, Berala-Carramar Hardcourt Tennis Association has continuously provided exceptional tennis and, more recently, Pickleball facilities to the Cumberland community. These year-round sports have attracted over 35,000 participations per year through the facilitation of male, female and mixed competitions, school bookings, junior and adult coaching programs and casual hire for both tennis and pickleball. The Association also provides a Junior Development program, fostering youth participation and talent development in sport.
Inclusion and Diversity in Sport Award - Ernest Kulauzovic
Ernest is known for bringing people together and creating spaces where everyone feels valued – regardless of age, background, or ability. Through countless initiatives, Ernest has championed programs that amplify diverse voices and strengthened neighbourhood relationships while enriching community wellbeing. Ernest leads with a rare blend of empathy and action. He listens with intention, responds with care, and creates spaces where others can truly shine. Whether he’s coordinating local events, standing alongside vulnerable communities, or mentoring the next generation of leaders, Ernest’s impact is felt far and wide.
Outstanding Contribution to Community Sport - Brad Sly
Brad has been fundamental in the growth of the OLQP Falcons Soccer Club. Through years of tireless, selfless service, he has transformed the club into a thriving, inclusive sporting organisation with 433 player registrations last season alone. His leadership, vision and relentless work ethic have created a club culture that is praised across the community and within the Church Football Association for its professionalism and welcoming atmosphere. Brad’s dedication has ensured the smooth operation of the club. From administration and compliance to game-day operations, guiding committee members and community volunteers, ensuring that children have the best possible sporting experience.
Let’s celebrate the people who inspire, lead and shape sport in our community.
