High flyers crowned at 2021 Broome Sports Awards

Broome sports’ night of nights took place last weekend, recognising the athletes, officials and teams who make outstanding contributions to the local sporting scene. The Broome Sport Association’s Broome Sports Awards 2021 were held at Broome Civic Centre on Saturday, November 13, celebrating individuals and teams for their contributions to community sport across the year. With BSA vice-president Kira Fong leading the proceedings, the night began with a special address from BSA president Mark Hubbard, who said Broome sport had a “massive” year of achievements. “In Broome, volunteers, officials and participants give up their own time week in and week out for their sport and often multiple sports,” he said. “Everyone stepped up and delivered amazing opportunities...everyone is a winner in my books.” After a bite to eat, the awards were in full swing, kicking off with the rising sports star award which was given to Annabella Thompson, 13, an athletics and MMA competitor. Next up was coach of the year which was awarded to Broome Netball Association’s Simone Eddington, followed by official of the year given to Broome Barracudas’ Vanessa Romano. During a short intermission, the BPAC Dance crew stole the show, with an energetic and sport-inspired performance which saw Broome’s talented young dancers flip, tumble and leap across the stage. Later, Broome Little Athletics took out the team of the year award and the club of the year was given to Broome Junior and Senior Motocross Club. UK-born Conor Gerard won volunteer of the year for his work with Broome Boxing Club, but was unable to receive his award in person as he was away competing in a State regional competition. Broome Netball Association’s Christie Milenkovic took the service to sport award, while Cable Beach Football Club captain Jordan King won the sports star of the year award, which was received by Mick Albert as King was away competing. The remote community award went to Beverley Edgar, who also made the finals of the 2021 Kimberley Girl competition earlier this year. The Broome Pearler’s Sporting Club won the outstanding achievement award, which they received with a standing ovation from the entire room. The special recognition award was awarded to Broome Soccer Association’s Ben Robertson, who has been involved with community sport in Broome since he was a teenager.