Students of the University of Newcastle have been recognised for exceptional sporting achievements at this year’s Sports Awards hosted by NUsport.

The 2011 Sports Person of the Year Award was presented to the accomplished Newcastle jets midfielder and Young Socceroos captain, Ben Kantarovski.

Kurt Neely (Cricket(, David Graham (Snow Skiing – Moguls), Matt Brady (Triathlon), Christopher Hill (Ultimate Frisbee) and Ellie Sparke (Ultimate Frisbee) were awarded the prestigious University Blues for showing outstanding sporting ability when representing the University of Newcastle.

Andrew Casey (Cricket), Ian Benson (Hockey), Kristie Thomas (Water Polo) and Bruce Engert (Softball) were awarded University Colours for contribution to the administration and organisation of University Sport.

The University of Newcastle Boat Club was named Sports Club of the Year.  This award recognises the Club’s attainment of high standards in sports administration.

The University and Friends of the University also presented Sports Scholarships to Matthew Harris (Athletics – Decathlon), Liam Mowbray (Archery), Celia Sullohern (Athletics – Cross Country), Tia Brady (Athletics – Track), Stephanie Halpin (Touch Football), Christopher Hill (Ultimate Frisbee), Sarah Lewis (Water Polo) and Gabriella Sainsbury (Water Polo).

At the Awards, special guest Hunter Sports group CEO, Troy Palmer, spoke about the organisation’s commitment to working with the region and the University to promote local sporting excellence.

NUsport CEO, Chris Hicks said the Sports Awards demonstrated the impressive achievements of athletes from the University.

‘The Sports Awards are a celebration of the talent, hard work and dedication of individuals, teams and the organisations that support all the finalists.  NUsport is proud to be a leader in health and fitness in partnership with community leaders who honour sporting excellence.’