As part of the Finocchiaro CLP Government's year of action, certainty and security, $100,000 is being invested to support the backbone of Territory sport - its volunteers.
Through the Northern Territory Sports Academy (NTSA), scholarships have been awarded to 35 coaches and officials from across the NT, representing 20 sports including basketball, netball, sailing and judo.
Minister for People, Sport and Culture, Jinson Charls, said the program is about recognising volunteers and giving them the tools to succeed.
"Every Territory athlete, from kids at their first training session to Paralympians on the world stage, relies on dedicated coaches and officials," Mr Charls said.
"This investment ensures our volunteers have the skills, knowledge and confidence they need so more Territorians can enjoy safe, high-quality sport and recreation opportunities.
Stronger volunteers mean stronger pathways for children, families and athletes right across the NT."
The scholarships, running from September 2025 to May 2026, provide tailored development support for each participant, including:
Individual development plans with mentoring and trainingAccess to sports science and medicine expertiseProfessional learning opportunities to build long-term skills
The scholarship program was launched in 2024 under the NT Sport Volunteer Action Plan 2023-25 to recruit, recognise and retain volunteers, keeping Territory sport thriving.
Scholarship recipient Korgan Hucent from Judo NT said the recognition will help grow his sport.
"For me, it's about using this support to grow judo in the Territory and give more young people the opportunity to experience the benefits of the sport," Mr Hucent said.
Mr Charls added:
"By backing our coaches and officials, we're investing in the thousands of children, young people and families who benefit from sport every week - building stronger, healthier and more connected communities for the future."
A full list of NTSA 2025-26 Coach and Official Scholarship recipients can be found here. here
