North Coast Academy of Sport celebrates outstanding achievements at 2026 Annual Awards

August 7, 2026

The North Coast Academy of Sport (NCAS) has recognised the outstanding achievements of its athletes, coaches and volunteers at the 2026 NCAS Annual Awards, held at C.ex Coffs on Saturday, 8 August.

The annual event celebrated another successful year for the Academy, recognising excellence across all NCAS programs and acknowledging the athletes, coaches, volunteers and supporters who continue to strengthen high-performance sport throughout the North Coast region.

Future Stars para-athlete Ayla Kowalczyk received the evening’s highest honour, the prestigious Darrel Chapman Memorial Athlete of the Year Award, following a remarkable season.

Ayla claimed a bronze medal in the T38 long jump at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, building on an outstanding performance at the Australian Championships, where she secured two silver medals and one bronze medal.

North Coast Academy of Sport Regional Manager Sue Charles said the Awards provided an opportunity to celebrate not only athletic success, but also the people and partnerships that make those achievements possible.

“Our award recipients and nominees represent the very best of regional sport. Their talent is matched by their commitment, resilience and determination to continually improve,” Mrs Charles said.

“We are incredibly proud of Ayla, along with every athlete recognised at this year’s Awards. Their achievements reflect the strength of the high-performance pathway available to young athletes across the North Coast.

“These successes would not be possible without the dedication of our coaches, managers and volunteers, the unwavering support of parents and carers, and the contribution of our valued partners.

“We sincerely thank the NSW Government through the Office of Sport, Underwriting Agencies Australia, Southern Cross University, Your Local Club, Greater Bank, and all of our sponsors and supporters for their continued investment in regional sport.”

Ayla was also named the NCAS Para Athlete of the Year in recognition of her achievements on the national and international stage. Living with cerebral palsy, she continues to inspire young athletes through her determination, resilience and sporting success.

Other major award recipients included netball athlete Lakyah Bell, who was named the UAA Indigenous Athlete of the Year, and basketball athlete Tallin Morris, who received the Leadership Award in recognition of the positive example he has set within the Academy.

Skateboarding Head Coach Bevin Newton was named Coach of the Year for his outstanding leadership, commitment and contribution to athlete development throughout the season.

The Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Jeannie Kuwert for her exceptional dedication and support of the Academy through her work with the Netball and Netball Umpires programs.

The Academy also recognised several long-serving coaches whose commitment has played a significant role in developing young athletes across the region.

Golf Development Head Coach Chris Graham received a 10-Year Service Award in recognition of a decade of outstanding service to the Academy.

Volleyball Head Coach Craig Little and Basketball Boys Head Coach Jacob Harkin each received 5-Year Service Awards for their continued dedication and contribution to NCAS programs.