The Oceania Athletics Association (OAA) honoured the finest athletes, coaches, officials, and volunteers from across the region at the prestigious 2025 OAA Awards, held during the Association’s Congress in Rarotonga, Cook Islands.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of the South Pacific, the awards evening recognised the remarkable achievements and lifelong contributions of individuals who have elevated athletics throughout Oceania.

New Zealand’s Hamish Kerr was named Male Athlete of the Year, following a standout season that culminated in Olympic Gold in Paris. Fellow Olympic Gold Medallist, Australia’s Nina Kennedy received Female Athlete of the Year, celebrating 2 years of outstanding performances.

Athletes from the Pacific Islands were also celebrated for their exceptional performances. Alex Rose of Samoa was honoured as Male Pacific Island Athlete of the Year, while Leonie Beu from Papua New Guinea earned Female Pacific Island Athlete of the Year, reflecting the growing strength of Pacific athletes on the global stage.

In coaching, James Sandilands (New Zealand) and Di Sheppard (Australia) were recognised as Male and Female Coach of the Year respectively, both praised for their leadership, mentorship, and development of elite athletes.

The awards also highlighted the essential work of technical officials in the sport. Jeoffrey Poea of the Solomon Islands was named Male Technical Official of the Year, while Taraivina Nabainivalu of Fiji received the honour of Female Technical Official of the Year.

Three individuals were recognised with Merit Awards for their longstanding service to athletics in Oceania: David Benjimen (Vanuatu), Matt Mahon (Australia), and Diane Lowden (Australia). Their behind-the-scenes commitment has helped grow and sustain the sport at all levels.

The highest honour of the Congress, Life Membership, was bestowed upon two leaders in the athletics community: Patricia Kinanne of Australia and Trevor Spittle of New Zealand. Their decades of tireless service and enduring impact on the sport were warmly acknowledged by their peers and the wider athletics family.

The 2025 OAA Awards in Rarotonga served as a celebration of the unity, diversity, and excellence that define athletics in the Oceania region. As the sport continues to grow across the Pacific, the contributions of these award recipients will serve as inspiration for future generations.

—ENDS—