The WA Sports Star Award is now back within the reach of some of the most prominent products of the WA sports system, with those shifting their careers to interstate clubs to remain eligible which is consistent with the eligibility applied to those plying their trade in leagues around the world.
After a review of WA Sport Awards criteria, SportWest has confirmed changes for the WA Sports Star Award that sees WA’s talented sportspeople recruited to clubs outside of Western Australia stay in contention for Western Australia’s most prestigious individual sports award.
SportWest CEO Troy Kirkham said the changes re-introduced the opportunity to recognise everyone that has risen to sporting prominence through WA community sport.
“We’re pleased to ensure there’s a place for athletes out of the WA sports system to be celebrated for their achievements, whether they’re competing for teams interstate or internationally”, said Mr Kirkham.
“It’s great to acknowledge that the sports stars of leagues here in Australia and around the world are a product of our WA sports system and have enjoyed the support of the WA sporting community to achieve wonderful results on some of the biggest stages their sport has to offer”, he said.
The criteria for two other categories – the rebel WA Junior Sports Star and the Community Sporting Event of the Year have also been adjusted following the review.
The rebel WA Junior Sports Star Award has changed the interpretation of the age requirement, with nominations now able to consider the performance of athletes at any time within the performance period that occur prior of their 19th birthday. Previously, an athlete had to be under the age of 19 at the end of the assessment period on 30 November each year.
The Community Sporting Event of the Year amendments deliver a stronger focus on the engagement and positive impact on people in WA communities and remove the emphasis on economic impact that had previously been a key component of the category.
Nominations for the 2024 WA Sport Awards will be open from Friday 18 October 2024, with the celebration of all nominees, finalists and winners across 13 categories to be presented at Optus Stadium on Thursday 6 February 2025.
For more information
Please contact SportWest Communications Manager, Bronte Vause via email at brontevause@sportwest.com.au or Member and Partnerships Manager, Matt Bamford via email at mattbamford@sportwest.com.au
