Finalists for the 2024 Victorian Sport Awards (VSAs) have been revealed, highlighting the athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, and initiatives that have shaped sport and recreation across Victoria.
Spanning 18 categories, the awards recognise contributions at all levels, from grassroots participation to elite international competition.
A record 330 nominations were submitted this year, reflecting the passion and dedication within the Victorian sporting community.
A panel of 45 industry experts was tasked with selecting the finalists, including four-time Olympian Steve Moneghetti AM OLY, Netball Victoria’s Sharelle McMahon, and Australian hurdles record-holder Kyle Van Der Kuyp, alongside CEOs from leading sporting organisations.
This year’s event could see history made as Scotty James (snowboarding) and Jakara Anthony (mogul skiing) aim for their third consecutive Frank Wilkes and Kitty McEwan Awards, a feat only achieved once before by skier Kirstie Marshall in the early 1990s.
Their competition includes Olympic gold medalists Kelland O’Brien (cycling), John Peers (tennis), and world champion swimmer Sam Williamson.
On the women’s side, Grace Brown (cycling), Emily Petricola (para-cycling), and Qian Yang (para-table tennis)—all Paris gold medalists—will contend for top honors.
Vicsport Chair Jason Hellwig says it’s is a wonderful achievement and a credit to the Victorian sporting industry that the nominations records was shattered this year.
“Combined with the calibre of the nominations, these Awards are a true showcase of the successes throughout the Victorian sport and active recreation community,” said Hellwig
“I thank all the judges who took on the challenging but rewarding task of deciding this year’s finalists and winners and I look forward to honouring those recipients at the 2024 Victorian Sport Awards in May.” he said.
Local Finalist
Beyond individual achievements, the awards also celebrate impactful programs and initiatives.
Notable finalists include Proud 2 Play’s Pride Hub, the first-ever pride activation at the Australian Grand Prix, and the Victorian Institute of Sport’s ‘The Moment’ documentary series, which explores the organization’s rich history through the experiences of former athletes and coaches.
The Hon. Ros Spence, Minister for Community Sport said,” Congratulations to all nominees and finalists. Vicsport set a new record for nominations in 2024, which shows the high calibre of athletes, coaches, and administrators across Victoria.
“It’s fantastic to see this group of outstanding Victorians nominated by their communities for going above and beyond at all levels of sport. We’re delighted to shine the spotlight on these local icons at the 2024 Victorian Sport Awards.” said Spence.
In addition to the 18 awards nominated by the Victorian sporting community, the most prestigious honour of the night, the State Government Outstanding Contribution to Victorian Sport Award, will be bestowed to an individual for their lifelong commitment to sport in Victoria.
Previous recipients of the award include Dr. Peter Brukner OAM, Neale Daniher AO, Cathy Freeman OAM and Cadel Evans AM.
Presented by the State Government of Victoria and Vicsport, the 2024 VSAs will be held on Wednesday, 14 May 2025, in the Members’ Dining Room at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
The night will bring together Victoria’s sporting community to honor those who continue to drive excellence and inspire the next generation.
Latest – Local Sports Clubs Set to Benefit from Booming Tech Sector
Australia’s sports technology industry has reached $5.65 billion, presenting new opportunities for Werribee’s sporting community.
According to the Australian Sports Technologies Network, CSIRO, the Australian Sports Commission and Australia’s tech news a recently launched a world-first research partnership focused on artificial intelligence in sport. The initiative aims to help sporting organisations adopt AI responsibly while improving performance and inclusivity.
Community clubs now have access to high-definition cameras, live streaming capabilities, and interactive platforms that were once exclusive to elite professional sports, enabling local teams to broadcast matches and attract new participants at affordable costs.
With Victoria home to over 40% of the nation’s sports tech businesses, Werribee clubs can tap into innovations ranging from volunteer management platforms to performance analytics—technology that’s transforming grassroots sport across Australi
 have been announced. 330 nominations were received.){kind=link}