Du Preez claims SWAS Sports Star of the Year

Despite the uncertainty of COVID-19 community transmission in the South West, the South West Academy of Sport held yet another successful annual awards dinner last Friday in Bunbury.

Proud homegrown hockey talent Ella Du Preez was crowned sports star of the year — an honour rather fitting, according to SWAS chief executive Bernice Butlion.

“I think Ella really epitomises the type of sports star we were looking for, because I feel her values align to those of SWAS,” Butlion said.

“It is not only about achievements on the field, but it is also about off the field and I believe everyone on the night would have seen the way Ella professionally conducts herself.”

Butlion also praised the work of everyone who helped make the event happen, with COVID-19 protocols openly endorsed by those who attended.

“Most events are getting cancelled,” she said. “So we were really proud that we were able to go ahead.”

SWAS award winners

Community achiever of the year - Lowen Ferry (road cycling) and Lucy Hill (downhill mountain biking)

Emerging star of the year - Lauren Rowe (winner, dressage), Mark Holland (runner-up, golf)

Team female athlete of the year - Ella Du Preez (hockey)

Team male athlete of the year - Jordan Smithall (hockey)

Individual female athlete of the year - Lucy Hill (winner downhill mountain biking), Lucinda Jones (runner-up, swimming)

Individual male athlete of the year - James Kiely (winner, athletics/surf lifesaving), Gabriel Doolan (runner-up, athletics)

Wally Foreman coach of the year - Juan Propato (soccer)

Sports star of the year - Ella Du Preez (hockey)