Hockey: Northland stalwart gets top Hockey NZ honours

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Northland stalwart Sue Shepherd took top honours in the Hockey New Zealand service awards last weekend.

Sue was awarded the Pakistan Trophy for her immense contribution to the sport of hockey, especially on her home turf of Northland Hockey.

Her incredible vision, leadership, dedication, and expertise has contributed to the growth and vibrancy of hockey in the Northland area over many years.

The Pakistan Trophy is not awarded every year, but it was agreed by the Hockey New Zealand Board that Sue was a very deserving recipient. Sue was nominated for the award by the Northland Hockey Association.

Gold Service awards for 25 years of more service to hockey were given to Cantabrians Peter Cox and Hilary Stubbs, along with umpire and community awards.

Canterbury's David Appleby has also been named a Life Member of Hockey New Zealand for his contribution to hockey both as a player and administrator.

Hockey New Zealand interim chief executive Ian Francis spoke at the awards dinner about the high calibre of people involved in the sport.

"This year saw five new service award categories introduced which received 41 diverse nominations from across the wider hockey community," he said.

"Our sport is hugely reliant upon and indebted to the people involved week in and week out at grassroots level, and it was extremely satisfying to recognise and acknowledge the outstanding effort and success on behalf of our many volunteers, coaches, officials, and administrators within our community.

"Going forward, we again encourage all regions and associations to align their respective awards to Hockey New Zealand as a means to further recognising those valued people who contribute so much to the sport."