2025 Sports Awards Nominees

Capricorn RSL Sub Branch

Junior Referee/Umpire Encouragement Award

Commencing in 2009 this award is provided to encourage and enthuse young people to become involved in officiating in their favorite sport.

Ashlyn Hill - Softball
Ashlyn is a highly dedicated softball umpire with significant experience at both club and representative levels. She achieved her Level 2 umpiring accreditation at the Queensland Under-14 State Championships this year. Alongside umpiring, Ashlyn is a talented player representing Rockhampton, Capricornia, and Queensland. She demonstrates confidence and excellent knowledge of the rules, communicates effectively on the field, and regularly volunteers to umpire multiple games in a weekend while managing her playing commitments. Ashlyn also mentors junior umpires, supporting the development of the next generation. Additionally, she represented Queensland on a development tour to Japan, showcasing her commitment and professionalism.

Iszy Smyth – Netball
Iszy has been involved with the club for three years and has quickly made a name for herself as a dedicated umpire. She began umpiring a year ago in lower grades and, due to her natural ability, progressed to officiating higher-level junior and senior games within six months. This year, she achieved her National C badge. Iszy consistently umpires fixtures, often stepping in when others are unavailable, and has been actively mentoring junior umpires, helping them develop their skills. While her own representative netball commitments have prevented her from umpiring at rep level, her impact at club level has been significant.

Lachlan Chirio - Hockey
Lachlan took on umpiring for the first time this season and approached it with enthusiasm and commitment. While he has no formal accreditation yet, he was invited to umpire at a state competition, demonstrating recognition of his skill at the local level. Lachlan plays in the A2 and A3 senior grades and represents Rockhampton in the U16 Boys division, while also supporting junior training, mentoring young players, helping with competitions, raffles, and guiding junior umpires. He consistently umpired J2 games, assisted with A3 games, and oversaw U10 umpires, ensuring smooth operations and providing leadership across the club.

Lachlan Watson - Football
Lachlan has been involved with the Frenchville Roos for 8 years as a player and took on refereeing for the first time in 2025 as a Junior Referee with Football Queensland. He officiated numerous junior games, served as linesman for senior FQPL matches, and contributed to refereeing at the Central Coast Grand Finals. Recognised for his professionalism, consistency, and enthusiasm, Lachlan was awarded 2025 Central Coast Junior Referee of the Year. Alongside his refereeing, he played for the FQPL U16/17 team and supported the Premier League U23s, demonstrating commitment, maturity, and a strong dedication to both playing and officiating within the Frenchville Football community.

Sam Loughnan - Basketball
Lachlan has been involved with the Frenchville Roos for 8 years as a player and took on refereeing for the first time in 2025 as a Junior Referee with Football Queensland. He officiated numerous junior games, served as linesman for senior FQPL matches, and contributed to refereeing at the Central Coast Grand Finals. Recognised for his professionalism, consistency, and enthusiasm, Lachlan was awarded 2025 Central Coast Junior Referee of the Year. Alongside his refereeing, he played for the FQPL U16/17 team and supported the Premier League U23s, demonstrating commitment, maturity, and a strong dedication to both playing and officiating within the Frenchville Football community.

Zafeera Gibson – Rugby
Zafeera has been actively involved in refereeing and coaching since 2021, beginning with netball and more recently focusing on filling the gap in female referees for U13 and below. She holds Smart Rugby and Referee Ready accreditations, as well as Foundation Umpire accreditation in netball, and has been involved with Frenchville Rugby Union and Netball since 2023. While she has not yet officiated at representative level, Zafeera consistently contributes to club and local carnival games. She also mentors and coaches young players through her role with QLD Reds Rugby Union, delivering “Rookies to Reds” programs in Rockhampton and surrounding areas.

Noel Ash Trophy for

Most Improved Player

Noel was a long standing Board member and Frenchville Sports Club Chairman for many years. He was involved in a number of sports with his wife Fae and sons David and Paul.

Ace Ahuriri – Basketball
Ace delivered a standout year of growth in 2025, competing across multiple levels including Frenchville U16 A and U18 A, representing the Rockhampton Rockets U16 team and earning selection in the State Performance Program squad. After narrowly missing selection as a bottom-age athlete previously, Ace responded with determination, excelling at trials and securing his place this cycle. He has continued to develop into a leader, captaining the Rockets and becoming a key contributor across competitions. With strong scoring output and a clear commitment to improvement, Ace also began coaching U8s, showing maturity, reliability and a genuine passion for helping others.

Brad Taylor – Rugby
Brad joined the Frenchville Pioneers in 2025 and took on rugby for the first time after previously playing cricket for the club. Competing in A Grade senior rugby, he made an immediate impact, starting on the wing and adapting quickly to fullback when required. His versatility, game awareness and fearless approach stood out, alongside consistent training and match attendance. Brad’s rapid growth was recognised through finishing second in the Players’ Player awards, reflecting the respect he earned from teammates across his first season.

Dave Price – Hockey
Dave joined the club as a player in 2025 after being involved for several years through his son’s participation. Playing A3 Men’s, he progressed quickly into A2 Men and became one of the club’s top goal scorers. Dave embraced coaching and feedback, developing strong skills as a striker and approaching every session with enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. Taking up a new sport at 53, his dedication, adaptability and positive attitude have been an inspiration and a credit to the club.

Lauren Serfontein – Softball
In just her second season of softball, Lauren has already made a strong impact through commitment, adaptability and rapid improvement. In 2025, she represented Frenchville and Rockhampton at the Queensland Masters Over 35s Championships and showed impressive versatility by stepping into new positions when required. Her training and game attendance has been consistently strong, and her performance statistics reflect how quickly she has developed. Lauren’s work ethic and willingness to learn have made her a valuable member of the club.

Mitchell Howe – Wheelchair Basketball
Mitchell has made significant progress since taking up wheelchair basketball only 18 months ago. Starting in B Grade, he quickly developed his understanding of rules, positioning and responsibilities and confidently stepped up into A Grade, where he has continued to improve against higher-level competition. Mitchell’s dedication is exceptional, regularly travelling long distances to attend training whenever possible. His positive, determined attitude and willingness to take on new challenges have seen his confidence, skill and game awareness grow rapidly.

Samuel Grice – Football
Samuel has shown remarkable improvement across the 2025 season, contributing to both the Premier League U23s and Community Men’s teams. He has developed from a quiet beginner into a reliable and influential team player, with clear growth in technical skill, game awareness and teamwork. Samuel’s training attendance and effort have been consistent throughout the season as he worked hard to refine his abilities and contribute to team success. His determination, resilience and commitment to growth make him a standout nominee.

Wade Haynes – Cricket
Wade has shown outstanding improvement since beginning his senior cricket journey with Frenchville in 2022. Through extra training and one-on-one coaching, he has significantly developed his bowling, focusing on consistency, variation and game awareness. His commitment has seen him progress into 2nd Grade, earn selection in the A Grade T20 side and represent the Rockhampton Players League. Wade consistently sets the standard at training, arriving early, staying late and bringing energy and positivity that lifts those around him.

Brian & Merril Smith Trophy for

Junior Team of the Year

As you know, Brian unfortunately passed away in 2019 and Merril continues the long term commitment that both she and Brian had to the Club in encouraging and supporting many junior sports people in a range of sports.

Division 3 Juniors Frenchville White – Cricket
Frenchville White delivered an outstanding 2024/2025 season, finishing as both Minor Premiers and Premiers after securing top spot on the ladder and remaining undefeated all year. With four years of playing and training together, the team has built strong teamwork, resilience and mateship, backed by excellent training attendance and a positive on-field attitude. From their early days in Junior Blast Cricket, this group has continued to grow together and will remain united for the 2025/2026 season, proudly reflecting the values of junior sport.

Frenchville Pioneers U15 Maroon – Rugby
Frenchville Pioneers U15 Maroon delivered an exceptional season, exceeding expectations as a predominantly younger squad and earning a place in an all-Frenchville Grand Final at Ryan Park. In a tight and determined contest, Maroon claimed the premiership with a 26–21 victory. Strong training attendance and positive attitudes underpinned their success, with several players achieving representative selection in 2025. Captain Henry Clark progressed through multiple pathways to Queensland Reds U14 Development, highlighting the depth of talent and promise within this team.

Frenchville Rovers J2 – Hockey
Frenchville Rovers J2 showed remarkable resilience across the season, bouncing back from a 7–0 opening loss to produce an impressive run of six straight wins. In a tightly contested competition, they held their nerve late in the season, winning their final two games to secure the Minor Premiership and finish top of the ladder. The team carried strong form into the finals and earned a Grand Final berth. While an early injury setback impacted the decider, their fighting spirit and determination defined an outstanding season.

Junior A Cobras – Netball
The Junior A Cobras produced one of the standout turnarounds of the year, finishing first on the ladder after losing only one game all season. They narrowly missed the Minor Premiership on goal difference but responded with composure, going on to win the Grand Final by a single goal. After starting the season with just seven players, the team showed resilience by building depth and strengthening their squad. Several players earned representative selection, and after going winless the previous season, their premiership success was a reward for persistence, commitment and hard work.

U16/17 FQPL Boomers – Football
The U16/17 FQPL Boomers demonstrated outstanding commitment to Frenchville throughout the season, with consistently strong training attendance, high effort, and a determined team-first attitude. Despite injuries, illness and challenging matches, the group showed maturity in responding to setbacks and continuing to improve. Many players also stepped up to support senior and U23 teams when required, highlighting their versatility, professionalism and willingness to contribute across the club.

Black Family Trophy for

Senior Team of the Year

The Black family have been involved in Frenchville sport from day one of the club, 75 years ago, which is longer than many of our lives so far. Sadly, Mrs Merle Black passed away last year. We were honoured to have Mrs Merle Black as our patron.

A Grade - Wheelchair Basketball
Frenchville’s A Grade wheelchair basketball team delivered an outstanding 2025 season, achieving Sunshine Coast silver, Rockhampton Bash silver, Maryborough gold and Gold Coast Classics bronze, while finishing first on the ladder in the Cow Ares division. Their results reflect not only skill and teamwork, but also a strong training culture where senior players consistently model professionalism and a willingness to learn. The team also prides itself on mentoring younger athletes, helping build skills, confidence and inclusion across the program.

A2 Men – Hockey
Frenchville’s A2 Men’s hockey team showed exceptional resilience throughout the finals series, overcoming injuries and missing players to perform with belief and composure. After finishing lower on the ladder, they produced a confident 2–0 semi-final win and followed it with a determined preliminary final performance, defending a crucial short corner under pressure to secure a Grand Final spot. While the Grand Final did not go their way, the team’s effort, spirit and unity earned widespread respect and reflected the best of Frenchville hockey.

Frenchville C Women Foxes – Softball
The Frenchville C Women Foxes combined strong camaraderie with a genuine team-first culture to deliver an outstanding 2025 season. They finished as Minor Premiers and went on to win the Grand Final, built on consistency, teamwork and a positive approach on and off the field. The group’s commitment extends beyond game day through regular training, fundraising and active involvement in club activities, creating an inclusive environment that reflects Frenchville values and supports continued success.

Frenchville Falcons A Grade – Cricket
Frenchville Falcons A Grade capped off an exceptional 2024/2025 season by finishing as Minor Premiers before defeating Gracemere in the Grand Final to claim the A Grade Premiership. This result marked the club’s second consecutive premiership and highlighted the team’s consistency and high performance across the season. A strong culture sits at the heart of their success, with senior players mentoring juniors and supporting development. With more than half the squad representing Central Queensland, the Falcons continue to set the standard for hard work, leadership and sustained excellence.

Frenchville Panthers U23 A Men – Basketball
Frenchville Panthers U23 A Men enjoyed a dominant 2025 summer season, finishing first on the ladder with a 14–1–1 record before completing their finals campaign with an impressive 58–40 win. Many players have been with Frenchville for their entire basketball journey, creating a strong sense of unity and club culture. The team also gives back in a big way, with several players coaching junior teams and supporting development programs, reflecting leadership and commitment well beyond the court.

Frenchville Pioneers Senior Men’s A Grade – Rugby
Frenchville Pioneers Senior Men’s A Grade delivered a remarkable 2025 season, turning around a winless 2024 campaign with seven consecutive victories to finish second on the ladder and qualify for finals. The squad blended U17 graduates with experienced players, building a strong culture of teamwork, resilience and commitment. Their impact was also felt off the field through mentoring juniors, supporting fundraising, and helping deliver record-breaking home game events, strengthening club culture and setting a promising foundation for the future.

Mambas Senior A – Netball
Mambas Senior A produced an exceptional 2025 season, finishing first on the ladder and winning the Grand Final 76–32 to secure back-to-back premierships and continue a powerful club resurgence. With seven players involved in the Capricorn Claws program, the team often balanced travel and representative duties yet continued to perform with heart and consistency each week. Even without full-squad training sessions, the group showcased outstanding teamwork, skill and determination, while also supporting junior development and club activities, reflecting a culture of excellence.

Premier League U23s – Football
Frenchville’s Premier League U23s delivered a standout 2025 season, securing the Minor Premiership, the Grand Final win, and the Most Consistent Team award (Druery Family Trophy). Their success was built on strong training attendance, resilience through injuries and challenges, and a positive team culture. The group also demonstrated leadership beyond match day through mentoring juniors, supporting club events and contributing to fundraising and 6-a-side competitions. After years of narrowly missing the title, their unity, commitment and skill combined to set a new benchmark for the club.

Merv Walker Memorial Trophy for

Coach of the Year

Merv was a former president and patron of the club. He was heavily involved in the funding arrangements to finance the first licensed clubrooms here in the late 60s and early 70s. Merv was involved in the legend­ary bottle drives that saw semi-trailer loads of bottles trucked to Bundaberg every couple of weeks - a great club supporter and a true gentleman.

Anna Wright – Softball
Anna has been a valued part of the club for more than 10 years and brings extensive coaching experience across Frenchville club teams, school teams and the Capricornia 10–12 Years Primary School side. In 2025, both of her junior teams reached the finals, and she also contributed on the field as a player in the grand final-winning C Ladies Frenchville team. Anna’s passion for softball shines through in the way she encourages young players into the sport, builds their skills, and supports their transition into club competition. Her dedication, mentorship and consistent commitment make her an outstanding nominee.

Bob McGhee – Cricket
In his first year with the club, Bob has made an immediate impact, bringing a wealth of experience including previous coaching roles with the Queensland Scorchers A Grade team on the Sunshine Coast. Across the 2024/25 season, he coached and mentored both junior and senior teams, delivering structured training sessions, supporting captains, and providing high-level technical guidance, particularly in bowling. His enthusiasm and professionalism were reflected in the team environment he created, including initiatives such as the weekly Mars Bar Challenges and consistent match preparation. Under his guidance, the Senior A Grade Men became Minor Premiers and Premiers, the Women’s team finished runners-up, and Junior Division 3 Frenchville White were Minor Premiers and Premiers.

Jenny Anderson – Wheelchair Basketball
Jenny has been involved with the club for 20 years and has shown outstanding commitment to the ongoing growth and success of wheelchair basketball at Frenchville. In 2025, she guided the A Grade team through a strong season, including a silver medal at the Sunshine Coast tournament. Jenny’s leadership extends well beyond game day, managing the many off-court responsibilities that support her players and the program as a whole. She fosters a positive environment, listens to her athletes, and maintains high standards in performance and professionalism, making her a highly deserving nominee.

Jordana Brady – Basketball
Jordana has coached at Frenchville Panthers consistently for more than a decade and continues to play a major role in developing junior athletes across multiple age groups. In 2025, she coached U10 A Girls, U12 A Girls and U16 A Boys, while also leading the U16 Rockhampton Rockets and serving as assistant coach for the U16 North Queensland Boys at the Australian National Championships. Jordana is a BQ Aspire program participant, holds Association-level accreditation, and attended the 2025 BQ Coaches Conference. She also gives back through her leadership in the wider basketball community, including her role as Vice President of Rockhampton Basketball, along with team management and club support.

Mark Chirio – Hockey
Mark has been involved with the club for five years and has shown exceptional dedication to junior hockey in Rockhampton. In 2025, he coached Frenchville Rovers J2, leading a largely new team to their first Grand Final appearance and a Minor Premiership. He also coached the Rockhampton U14 Boys and U11 Girls at State Titles. As a passionate goalkeeper, Mark ran weekly goalkeeping clinics to build skill and confidence in young players. His support of Come and Try Days, mentoring and club activities reflects a strong commitment to development and club culture.

Patrick Grice – Football
Patrick has been involved with Frenchville Football for 25 years and has 15 years of coaching experience across teams from U7s through to Premier Men’s, Women’s and U23s. In 2025, he led the Premier League U23s to a Minor Premiership, Grand Final victory and Most Consistent Team award. Known for being fair, approachable and deeply committed, Patrick consistently supports player development and builds strong team culture. Balancing coaching with playing and major personal milestones, his leadership and dedication have made a lasting impact across the club.

Robbie Mace – Rugby Union
Robbie joined the club in 2025 and brought strong coaching credentials, including experience with Rockhampton Grammar School Under 16s and the Under 19 CQ Bushrangers. As a Level 2 accredited coach, he helped revitalise a young Pioneers Senior Men’s A Grade squad after two winless seasons, guiding them to second on the ladder through improved training standards, strategy and player engagement. Robbie also contributes as the club’s Coaching and Development Officer, fostering an inclusive and professional culture while mentoring juniors and supporting pathways. His leadership has strengthened both on-field performance and the broader rugby community in Central Queensland.

Sam O’Brien – Netball
Sam has been involved with the club for eight years and has contributed across almost every level of netball, coaching Senior A Grade, Junior A1, B1, D2 and multiple representative teams. She also runs the Ready for Rep program for emerging athletes and leads the Frenchville Star Program, introducing children aged four and up to the sport. As Rep Convenor, Sam volunteers significant time each week managing administration and ensuring representative programs run smoothly. Her adaptability, dedication and passion for player development, from beginners through to rep athletes, make her an outstanding nominee.

Maree Wahlin Trophy for

Most Valuable Player

Maree was involved with sport at the club for many years and was also a director on the board. She donated this trophy to honour players who may or may not be a “star” player. Every team needs players who are reliable, enthusiastic and perform week in and week out to get the job done.

Dylan Robinson – Wheelchair Basketball
Dylan has been involved with the club for 13 years and continues to perform at the highest level, competing in National Premier Grade wheelchair basketball in 2025. He consistently brings maximum effort to training and games, supports teammates to develop new skills, and contributes to club activities such as raffles. Known for high-scoring performances and reliable impact, Dylan’s national selection reflects his talent and consistency. Win, lose or draw, he maintains a positive team-first attitude that lifts those around him and reflects the values of the Rockwheelers.

Ebonee Moffat – Hockey
Ebonee has been part of the club for more than 10 years and remains a driving force within Frenchville Rovers. In 2025, she played A2 Women, appearing in 17 games and scoring eight goals from midfield. She also represented Sparks in the Central Queensland Hockey League and competed at State Titles with Gladstone Hockey Association. Beyond her playing performance, Ebonee’s contribution is exceptional through consistent training attendance, support of raffles and events, assistance with maintenance, and her role managing the Rockhampton U14 Boys team. As captain, she leads with positivity, mentors new players and consistently puts the club first.

Ervin Thorpe – Football
Ervin delivered an outstanding 2025 season as both a player and leader, captaining the Premier League U23s and playing a key role in their Grand Final victory. He also coached the U16/17 Boomers, guiding them to the Grand Finals and helping strengthen pathways between junior and senior squads. Ervin’s commitment to training, consistent attendance and positive energy set a high standard across the club. His leadership, mentorship and loyalty make him an exceptional nominee.

Jared Mahony – Softball
Jared has been involved with the club for more than five years and represented Frenchville with distinction across club, regional and state levels in 2025. Over the past 12 months, he played for Frenchville, Rockhampton, Capricornia and Queensland, including selection in the Queensland Under-16 representative team, Queensland Secondary Schools Championships, and a Queensland development tour of New Zealand. Jared consistently brings a strong attitude to training and games, supports umpiring duties, helps teammates and regularly attends working bees to assist with facility maintenance. His commitment and leadership go well beyond the field.

Joe McGahan – Cricket
Joe has been a proud Falcon for 16 years and continues to represent the club with outstanding professionalism. In 2025, he played A Grade for Frenchville while also representing the Central Queensland Seamers, the North Queensland Open Team and the Queensland Country Team. He enjoyed an exceptional season, scoring 268 runs at an average of 57.33 with a strike rate of 96.63, and finishing as equal leading wicket taker with 21 wickets. As captain of the CQ Seamers, he led the team to a North Queensland title and later captained CQ at the Queensland Bulls Country tournament. Joe’s leadership, consistency and team-first approach make him a standout nominee.

Kane Clough – Rugby
Kane was a cornerstone of Frenchville Pioneers Senior Men’s A Grade in 2025, leading by example as a long-serving captain and missing only one game due to injury. He brought fearless intent on game day, strong defence and powerful running, while also contributing with two tries across the season. Kane’s professionalism and training standards lift those around him, and his support extends to extra training, game-day set ups, raffle duties and mentoring younger players. His leadership and commitment reflect the strongest values of the club.

Lani Duncan – Basketball
Lani has been with Frenchville Panthers since U10s and is a proud third-generation club member. In 2025, she represented multiple teams across junior, senior and representative levels, including Rockhampton Cyclones, Frenchville A Girls and Division 1 Women, State Performance Program squads and district school teams. She was instrumental in the U16 Cyclones Division 1 bronze medal at State Championships and delivered standout finals performances for her club sides. Lani’s work ethic, training attendance and commitment to improvement are exceptional, and she also gives back by coaching Aussie Hoops, truly embodying Frenchville’s team spirit.

Duncan Stewart Memorial Trophy for

Club Person of the Year

This award was named after Duncan in 1999. He was a cricket tragic who was heavily involved in junior cricket within our club and Rockhampton cricket. Duncan, as his name suggests, fell in love with the game in Victoria after emigrating from Scotland

Amber Foster – Hockey
Amber has been involved with the club for more than 10 years and contributes significantly as both a player and the club’s Social Media Manager. Through photography, graphics and regular content updates, Amber helps showcase the energy, teamwork and spirit of the club while strengthening connection with members and attracting new ones. This work is done largely in personal time and has had a lasting positive impact on the visibility and community reach of Frenchville Rovers.

Candice Bonney – Football
Candice is a standout contributor to Frenchville Roos, playing for the Girls United Social Team while also coaching the U11 MiniRoo team and stepping in for other coaches when needed. As Committee Secretary, she supports members, liaises with football authorities and helps keep operations running smoothly. Candice has also played a key role in organising major club events including Ladies Day 2025 and Senior Presentation Night 2025, as well as supporting the set up and delivery of Grand Final Day. Her energy and willingness to jump in wherever needed has made a genuine difference across the club.

Damian Abell – Basketball
Damian is a highly dedicated club member who contributes across communications, registrations, documentation and coaching. As a general committee member and coach of two teams, he consistently supports training and player readiness. Off the court, Damian assists with managing the club inbox, updating registration forms and improving template communications to streamline processes. He earned his club-level coaching accreditation in 2025 and is widely valued for his quiet reliability, willingness to take on last-minute tasks and consistent support behind the scenes.

Di Pettett – Netball
Di has made an enormous contribution to netball through her work managing registrations, coaching two teams and mentoring young umpires. As registrar, she processes close to 600 player registrations each season across around 60 teams, managing invitations, placements, fee calculations and refunds for weather and byes. She is also the first point of contact for parents and players needing support, demonstrating outstanding organisation and communication. Di further supports the club through raffles, committee involvement and consistently stepping in to help wherever needed.

Jason Robinson – Wheelchair Basketball
Jason has been a dedicated member of the Frenchville Rockwheelers for 12 years and plays a vital role in keeping the program running smoothly. His support includes liaising with the stadium regarding equipment rehires, transporting wheelchairs for repairs and welding, and driving vehicles to and from competitions. Jason also holds a committee position and is known for volunteering whenever help is needed. His practical support, reliability and selfless contribution make him an invaluable part of the club community.

Sharnee Pakleppa – Softball
Sharnee has contributed to Frenchville Scorpions Softball for more than 10 years and continues to support the club across a wide range of roles. She plays and coaches the C Ladies Frenchville team, fills in for higher grades when required, scores for junior games and assists in multiple roles within the Rockhampton and District Softball Association. Sharnee also represents Rockhampton at the Queensland Masters Over 35s Championships and serves as Secretary of the Frenchville Scorpions Softball Club. Her ongoing involvement in working bees, raffles and club support reflects outstanding commitment.

Sofiea Yunus – Rugby
Sofiea plays a central role within Frenchville Pioneers JRUFC as Junior Girls Coordinator, overseeing junior girls programs through registrations, scheduling and child safety compliance. She coaches multiple age groups including U13, U15 and U17, providing technical guidance, mentorship and a positive environment for developing athletes. Sofiea also holds key committee roles across the club and wider rugby community and contributes significant time to fundraising, raffles and event delivery. Her leadership and commitment to female rugby pathways make her a highly deserving nominee.

Francis & Jessie Brady

Junior Sports Person of the Year

Francis Brady was the Club’s first treasurer in 1954 and Jessie was the first female appointed as a Director (a position she held for 30 years). They both promoted junior sports with the vision that a strong junior base would provide players for the senior teams.

Calum Wust – Football
Calum enjoyed a standout 2025 season, playing across both FQPL U16/17 and Premier League U23s and showing rapid development and versatility. He approached training and matches with discipline, consistency and a positive attitude, while also supporting club activities such as training and game-day set ups. Calum’s season was recognised through multiple awards including Most Improved (Les Grice Trophy) and Most Promising Youth (Clayton Rowland), and he was also part of the U23s Grand Final winning team. His growth and potential make him a deserving nominee.

Hayley Chirio – Hockey
Hayley demonstrated exceptional commitment to Frenchville Rovers both on and off the field in 2025. She played J2, captained the Rockhampton U11 Girls team to a first-place finish, and represented Capricornia at the 10–12 years state competition in Toowoomba while being one of the youngest athletes in the group. Hayley trained multiple times each week across goalkeeping, senior team sessions, fitness and representative commitments, showing outstanding discipline. She also supported the club through raffles, canteen, working bees and turf maintenance. Her achievements were recognised through multiple awards including Best and Fairest J2 Player, Junior Player of the Year and Rockhampton U11 Girls Best Player.

Henry Clark – Rugby
Henry delivered an outstanding 2025 season, playing U15s for Frenchville Pioneers Maroon and captaining the team to an RCL Premiership at Ryan Park. Despite travel demands, he maintained a professional approach, attending training whenever possible and backing it up with additional fitness and gym work. Henry’s leadership and team-first mindset were reflected in multiple representative selections including QLD Country Heelers U14s (vice-captain), Emerging Reds U14s (captain and man of the match), QLD Reds Gold U14s and Capricornia U15 Schoolboys. He also secured a scholarship to Downlands College for 2026 and earned further recognition through club awards and development opportunities.

Kaylee Acton – Netball
Kaylee’s first year with Frenchville has been exceptional, balancing A Grade with the Mambas alongside strong representative and school commitments. She maintained outstanding energy, preparation and professionalism across Claws, Future Firebirds, QISSN and multiple travel requirements. Kaylee earned selection in the Under 19 Queensland squad, Capricorn Claws Opens, RDS and Capricornia Schools teams and was named Player of the Tournament at the QISSN carnival. She also served as RGS Netball Captain and School Vice-Captain and represented Sunshine Thunder in the Sapphires Series, highlighting her elite talent and work ethic.

Max Ferguson – Softball
Max showed outstanding versatility in 2025, playing and pitching across multiple levels including Under-16s, B Men and A Men. He was instrumental in Frenchville success across both junior and senior competitions, pitching the Under-16s and A Men teams to Grand Final victories. Max also demonstrated exceptional commitment, travelling weekly from Gladstone for training and games and consistently helping wherever needed. His representative achievements include selection for Rockhampton Under-16 and Under-18, Queensland Under-16 and Under-18 teams and Capricornia School Sport, reflecting both talent and dedication.

Oliver Bloomfield – Wheelchair Basketball
Oliver competed in A Grade in 2025 and consistently demonstrated an excellent attitude to training and game day. He regularly attended sessions, contributed strongly to drills and supported club activities such as raffles. Oliver embraces all aspects of club life and shows a willingness to get involved wherever needed, including through multiple school sports. Recognised and respected by senior players for his work ethic and commitment, Oliver is a standout young athlete within the program.

Sam Gassman – Cricket
Sam debuted in A Grade for Frenchville in 2022 at just 14 and has continued to show outstanding dedication to his development and the club. He trains at every opportunity, maintains excellent attendance and gives back through coaching Blast Cricketers aged 4–10, showing strong leadership and patience. His representative achievements include selection in the Queensland U17 team, Queensland Schoolboys U16, CQ Open Men’s, U18 Centurions and the winning North Queensland Maher-Love Challenge team. Sam’s sportsmanship, reliability and talent make him an outstanding nominee.

Francis & Jessie Brady

Senior Sports Person of the Year

Francis Brady was the Club’s first treasurer in 1954 and Jessie was the first female appointed as a Director (a position she held for 30 years). They both promoted junior sports with the vision that a strong junior base would provide players for the senior teams.

Amber Foster – Hockey
Amber has been an outstanding contributor to Frenchville Rovers in 2025, playing A2 Women and representing Sparks in the Central Queensland Hockey League. Despite managing ongoing injuries, she consistently attended training and games and continued to contribute strongly as a goalkeeper. Amber also took on major off-field responsibilities, including social media management, player profiles, game-day graphics and club photography, strengthening connection across the club community. She also represented Gladstone Hockey Association at State Titles, reflecting her high performance and commitment both on and off the field.

Jeremy McMahon – Football
Jeremy delivered an exceptional 2025 season, representing both the Premier League U23s and FQPL Men’s squads for Frenchville Roos. His professionalism at training stood out, arriving early, working on his craft and supporting teammates’ development. On the field, he scored 26 goals in FQPL Men’s and 13 in Premier League U23s, earning Highest Goal Scorer honours for both teams. Jeremy also received the Best and Fairest (Luke Nelson Trophy) and was part of the Legends Shield-winning team. His reliability, work ethic and impact make him an outstanding nominee.

Jhett Page – Rugby
Jhett produced a standout first season of senior rugby, playing above his age group with composure and consistency. In 2025, he represented U19 Rockhampton Brahmans, U19 CQ Bushrangers and Queensland Country Colts, performing at a high level across each pathway. Jhett’s team-first attitude extends to extra training, mentoring juniors and supporting club duties such as raffles. His achievements include multiple representative selections and the Frenchville U19 Most Consistent Player Award, reflecting both performance and reliability.

Logan Whitfield – Cricket
Logan had an outstanding season as captain of the Frenchville Falcons A Grade team, leading by example on and off the field. He was a key member of the Falcons’ 2024/25 Minor Premiership and Premiership-winning side and represented Central Queensland in their North Queensland Championship victory. Logan also played for the CQ Seamers, finishing runners-up at the Bulls Masters Country Challenge at the Gabba, before earning selection in the North Queensland team and then the Queensland Country team to compete in South Australia. Consistent at training and always willing to help, Logan is an excellent ambassador for Frenchville Cricket.

Madi Day – Netball
Madi has been a dedicated member of Mambas Senior A since beginning her netball journey at Frenchville. She consistently brings a positive, team-first attitude, mentoring younger players as they transition into senior netball and helping build a strong team culture as social coordinator. Her performances earned selection in the Capricorn Claws team, where she was recognised as Most Valuable Player of the Year. Balancing work and sport, Madi maintained excellent training attendance, committed to extra fitness work and supported junior clinics and club activities throughout the season.

Nelson Schneider – Basketball
Nelson has been a consistent leader across U23 Men’s and Division 1 Men’s levels and made a major impact in 2025 as Captain Coach of the U23 A Men’s team. He led them to a Grand Final victory and also played a key role in the Division 1 Men’s premiership win in Winter 2025. Nelson gives back significantly through coaching the U16 Rockhampton Rockets and regularly supporting other teams by organising scorers and filling gaps when required. His standards at training and game day, along with his sportsmanship and reliability, make him a highly deserving nominee.

Nicholas Crouch – Softball
Nick has had an exceptional year in softball, representing Rockhampton, Queensland and Australia at elite levels. His achievements include competing in the ISC International Tournament with the Southside Stingers, playing in the NAFA World Series in the United States and representing Bar Buzz Fastpitch in Milwaukee. He also helped lead the Rockhampton Open Men’s team to a runner-up finish at the Queensland Open Men’s Championships and earned selection in the Queensland Open Men’s and Under-23 Men’s teams, plus the Australian Under-23 Men’s squad. Beyond performance, Nick is a standout role model, mentoring juniors, assisting with coaching and supporting extra training for representative athletes.

Sarah King – Wheelchair Basketball
Sarah has been a dedicated member of the Frenchville Rockwheelers for eight years and continues to compete across A Grade, national and international levels. She travels significant distance to attend training, consistently brings a positive attitude, and helps teammates improve through strong engagement in drills and skill development. Sarah also supports raffles and actively promotes the sport to attract new players. Her representative achievements include national competitions on the Gold Coast, the Australia U25 squad and the All Star 5 Classics. Her commitment, mentorship and leadership are highly respected within the club.