Anticipation is mounting ahead of the 2017 Northern Territory Sports Awards.

All Territorians involved in sport or who appreciate sporting excellence are reminded that time is running out to nominate a sportsperson, official or volunteer they believe is worthy of being recognised among the Territory’s best.

Nominations close on 29 January and Territorians and sporting groups are encouraged to make sure that everyone from athletes and coaches to officials and volunteers who run water, man the canteen or contribute to sport are nominated and acknowledged.

Past award winners include Olympians, Commonwealth Games participants, national and international athletes as well as long-term club supporters who selflessly give their time to support their sport.

This year’s Awards will also recognise the contribution of the Northern Territory Institute of Sport (NTIS), which is celebrating its 21st anniversary in 2017. The NTIS has provided the stepping stone for many successful Territory athletes’ careers.

There are eight nominated award categories -

·        NT Sportsperson of the Year

·        NT News NT Junior Sportsperson of the Year

·        NT Masters Sportsperson of the Year

·        Hot 100 NT Team of the Year

·        CUB Eric Johnston Coach of the Year

·        Colemans Printing Official's Award

·        Centralian Advocate Volunteer of the Year

·        Channel 9 Local Performance of the Year

The Awards also feature non-nominated categories whereby a panel considers suitable candidates for three honours -

·        NT Hall of Champions

·        Roll of Honour

·        Steve Abala Role Model - The Administrator's Medal

Nominations can be completed at www.ntsportsawards.nt.gov.au

Award finalists and winners will be acknowledged at a gala dinner on Saturday 25 March at the Marrara Indoor Stadium. Tickets for the dinner will be on sale next month.

For more details contact 8982 2317.

Media contact: Sport and Recreation, Department of Tourism and Culture | Media Manager 0476 844 832