The Auckland Dragon Boat Association capped off a vibrant 2024/25 season with its annual Sports Awards, celebrating paddlers, coaches, and volunteers who powered the sport forward with heart and community spirit.

The evening was a high-energy mix of recognition, fun, and flair. This year’s theme, TV and Movie theme brought colour and creativity to the red carpet (yes, there was an actual red carpet). From our favourite characters from The Pinkies are Back to Superman and a whole cast of Peterpan, and Netflix favourites, paddlers dressed to impress, making the most of the paparazzi, photo booth, and shared platters that kicked off the night.

The entertainment, led by Gary Brown — aka Austin Powers — had the crowd in stitches, while a live DJ kept the dance floor buzzing into the night. But the real stars of the show were the people who gave their all this season.

With heartfelt speeches and plenty of applause, the following winners were recognised for their dedication, leadership, and impact on our community.

Coach of the Year — Jason Tutara (Tsunami)

Coach of the Year finalists: Lorraine Bailey, Rosemary Geard, Serena Tiaiti, Umar Ali

Presented by ADBA legend Sooupu Perese, Jason was recognised for his outstanding leadership and dedication. Sooupu shared,
“This season, Jason took on the challenge of leading the Tsunami crew — a team with big dreams and little experience — and helped them make history by entering a standard boat at Regionals and Nationals for the first time in 16 years. The crew smashed their training times, never came last, and did it all with Jason at the helm, guiding, encouraging, and, let’s be honest, quietly worrying. Jason’s was also selected as a Black Dragons regional coach for the upcoming World Champs in Germany. His humour, heart, and passion have been a game-changer, inspiring paddlers across the region.”

Manager of the Year — Jackie Stafford (Waitemata Warriors)

Manager of the Year finalists: Isabel Baltazar, Jun Xiao, Linda Ashton, Sandy Timoti

Caroline Crann, ADBA Secretary, praised Jackie’s tireless work and unwavering commitment:
“Jackie is the heart and soul of the Waitemata Warriors. Behind the scenes, she handles everything from registering teams and securing race entries to organising Nationals accommodation — a task we all know is a massive logistical challenge. But Jackie’s role extends far beyond administration. She checks in on paddlers, fosters a sense of belonging, and keeps the crew connected and accountable throughout the season. Balancing this with full-time work and family life, Jackie’s leadership is inclusive, grounded, and inspiring. Her example reminds us all that great managers build not just teams, but thriving communities.”

Captain of the Year — Holly Claeys (City Dragons)

Captain of the Year finalists: Allen Chen, Neta Vazey, Phil Wakelin

Chris Stone, Sweep Coordinator, summed up Holly’s incredible impact:
“Holly’s commitment is beyond all limits; first to arrive, last to leave, always holding everything and everyone together. She’s recruited, coached, swept, and powered her team to silver and gold at Wellington and Regionals, and helped take them to Nationals grand finals. Even when injury sidelined her paddling, she earned her Level 3 Sweep, showing leadership is about presence, not position. She makes every paddler feel seen and welcome. Across Auckland’s dragon boating community, Holly is known and respected for her generosity, sportsmanship, and genuine care for everyone no matter which team you’re in. To many, she isn’t just a City Dragons captain, she’s a captain for all of Auckland Dragon Boating.”

Most Improved Paddler — Mia Ma (Dragon Riders)

Rookie of the Year: Dave Cross, Emma Oettli, Jesse Toms, Kayla Evans

Siobhan Harrod, ADBA Schools Liaison, highlighted Mia’s inspiring growth:
“Mia joined us relatively new to the sport, but her attitude and commitment stood out from day one. She showed up rain or shine, often early, eager to learn and improve. She studied stroke videos, used resistance bands, and worked tirelessly on her fitness. Over the season, Mia sharpened her technique, improved her timing, and cut her 200m split by over 15%, an impressive achievement. She earned a starting spot at Regionals, and was selected for the Auckland Regional team. Mia has become a team pillar: encouraging, supporting teammates, and sharing her journey.”

Rookie of the Year — Jenna Rope (Lion DBC) & Te Awerangi Hogg (Steel Dragons)

Rookie of the Year finalists: Dave Cross, Emma Oettli, Jesse Toms, Kayla Evans
Robin Donnell, Training and Funding Manager, praised both rookies for their exceptional first seasons:
“Jenna’s paddling journey started at Epsom Girls’ while still at school, then quickly stepping up to stroke the Pride mixed small boat at Regionals, before joining the Black Dragons squad. Her strength, natural ability, and leadership have made an unforgettable impact. Te Awerangi brought focus, humility, and relentless work ethic from day one. Stepping into the lead stroke position early on, she led crews to gold medals despite battling strep throat before Nationals. Both have inspired teammates and shown remarkable poise, setting high standards for rookies everywhere. Their future in the sport is bright and exciting.”

Volunteer of the Year — Tupara Morrison

Presented by Holly Claeys, this award recognises someone who made an extraordinary difference off the water:
“Tupara isn’t even a dragon boater but became an essential part of our events team. Voluntold or not, he showed up with a smile and stepped up as Boat Loader, managing boats, gear, traffic, and the inevitable chaos with humour, patience, and a big grin. He helped out at Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta and Regionals, proving that dedication and good spirit make all the difference. His commitment exemplifies the heart and soul behind our sport’s success.”

Chair’s Award — Lynda Newton

Holly Claeys also presented this special award, chosen for exceptional community impact:
“Lynda has been a powerhouse of energy and positivity within our dragon boat community. Whether here in Auckland or at international trips, she’s always ready to help others thrive. At the Pan Pacific Masters Games, she took charge from the sidelines, organising, engaging paddlers, and elevating the entire experience. Bursting with ideas and creativity, Lynda’s thoughtful approach and follow-through have made her an invaluable member of our events committee and a powerful force behind our successes.”

As ADBA looks ahead to another exciting year, these awards remind us of the incredible people who drive our sport forward, on the water and behind the scenes. Congratulations to all finalists and winners for making 2025 a season to remember!