Celebration of Sporting Achievements At Our 28th Annual CDF Sports Awards

The prestigious event recognised outstanding achievements and showcased the extensive sporting pathways available for students and teachers. This year, more than 200 students who represented the diocese at MacKillop and NSW Combined Catholic College events were acknowledged.

In addition, two primary teams and eleven secondary teams were recognised for winning state Catholic school titles. Proudly sponsored by the CDF, the awards were livestreamed, allowing families unable to attend in person to share in the celebrations.

The evening was supported by Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong (CEDoW) leadership, school principals, sports coordinators, conveners, coaches, managers, and teachers, all present to celebrate student athletes and their colleagues.

Bishop Brian’s message featured in the opening reflection where he commented that “it is within school sport that we can easily reflect the Gospel values of respect, dignity, participation, and teamwork. We are called to challenge each other to never lose sight of these values”.

CEDoW Executive Director, Peter Hill, highlighted the strong connection between sport and faith, referencing St Paul, who likened Christian life to a race.

"As students in our Catholic schools, you have a unique opportunity. When you compete, you represent your family, your school, and your parish. You are an ambassador. By your actions, by the way you respect your opponent, thank the officials, and support your teammates, you become a model for others. You become a public Catholic," he said.

"Tonight, you are the ones who have run in such a way as to win the prize. You set a goal, you worked tirelessly, and you achieved it. St Paul would understand your commitment. He would tell you that striving for your best and celebrating your God-given talents is a worthy pursuit. Be proud of what you have accomplished. But St Paul also challenges us to look beyond the finish line of the race. He reminds us that while you compete for a crown that will not last, we are all called to strive for a crown that is imperishable."

Mr Hill also celebrated the achievements of more than 800 students across the diocese who have excelled in higher-level sporting pathways, with many progressing to MacKillop, NSW Combined Catholic Colleges, and national competitions. He emphasised the importance of belonging, support, and encouragement, particularly highlighting the growing participation of student-athletes with disability.

He also acknowledged the vital role of school staff: “Your dedication ensures every student enjoys meaningful and rewarding sporting experiences, and your guidance shapes not only skills but also faith and character.”

The evening featured an inspiring interview with national 400m hurdles champion and two-time Olympian Sarah Carli, who shared her sporting journey, career highlights, and Olympic experiences.

Sarah shared her journey of determination and recovery after a serious accident, showing how resilience and perseverance have guided her both on and off the track. Sarah encouraged athletes to pursue careers beyond sport and emphasised the value of support networks and perseverance, making her an outstanding role model for the young audience.

Notably, teacher Carla Olima, from Good Samaritan Catholic Parish Primary School, Fairy Meadow, and St Columbkille’s Catholic Parish Primary School, Corrimal, received a Teacher Service Award for her outstanding contributions to primary sport in the diocese.

KEY AWARD WINNERS:

The Father Ward Trophy – Outstanding Girl Primary Sport

Maia Twentyman - Mary Immaculate Catholic Primary School, Eagle Vale

The John Gamble Trophy – Outstanding Boy Primary Sport

Jesse Baker - Holy Cross Catholic Primary School, Helensburgh

Most Outstanding Primary Para-Athlete

Oliver Sandona - Nazareth Catholic Primary School, Shellharbour City

Most Outstanding Secondary Para-Athlete

Oskar Driscoll - St John the Evangelist Catholic High School, Nowra

The Therry White Trophy – Most Outstanding Secondary Sportswoman

Ivy Miller - St Mary Star of the Sea College, Wollongong

The Bishop Mascord Trophy – Most Outstanding Secondary Sportsman

Creighton Meafou - Edmund Rice College, West Wollongong

The evening proved to be a great culmination of an exciting and successful sporting year across the Wollongong Diocese.