Central Coast Heart netball coach Amber Cross has been named Community Coach of the Year at the 2023 Sports Foyer NSW Community Sports Awards, presented by Sport NSW.
The awards night, held at CommBank Stadium on July 4, recognised outstanding achievements and contributions to community sport in NSW over the past year which is largely carried out by a volunteer workforce.
Cross was one of 12 category recipients to receive an award at the ceremony, hosted by Minister for Sport Stephen Kamper.
She was honoured for her outstanding success and contribution to netball.
Cross has had great success with her Central Coast Heart Premier League team.
She has been the Open division Head Coach since its inception in 2016 and has guided her team to four final series, three grand final appearances and one premiership.
Cross has been the head coach of the under 17 NSW team for the past six years and led the team to a gold medal win at the 2022 Australian Underage National Championships.
She is also head coach of Netball NSW’s Elite Athlete Program which sees her working closely with NSW players who have been identified at the Underage National Championships.
Sport NSW Chairperson Chris Hall said Cross was a worthy award recipient.
“We pay tribute and congratulate Amber on winning this prestigious award,” he said.
“Her untiring contribution showcases why community sport volunteers are the beating heart of community sport in NSW.
“Sport in NSW would not exist without magnificent volunteers such as Amber who have selflessly dedicated countless hours ensuring men and women, boys and girls of all ages can enjoy the health, social and community benefits that sport provides.
“The role and importance of community sport extends beyond the field of play.
“Sport has the unique ability to happily bind people together regardless of their different cultures and backgrounds.”
The awards evening also celebrated 23 recipients of Distinguished Long Service Awards, honouring individuals across a broad range of sports who have given exceptional service to their sport over a period of decades.
Source:
Sport NSW