The Finocchiaro CLP Government is proud to announce the NT Sports Awards winners celebrating the top athletes, coaches, officials and volunteers from grassroots participation through to elite international performance.
Darwin born and raised cricketer Jake Weatherald was named NT Sportsperson of the Year following a breakout summer as Australia's opening batsman in the Ashes series.
The awards ceremony featured two new categories, recognising Regional Performance of the Year and Para-Athlete of the Year, strengthening inclusion and representation in sport.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is proud to announce the winners of the 2026 Northern Territory Sports Awards, held on Saturday 28 March. The ceremony brought together the Territory's sporting elite to celebrate the athletes, coaches, officials, and volunteers who define our sporting culture.
Darwin-raised cricketer Jake Weatherald took home the night's top honour, NT Sportsperson of the Year. Weatherald's rise from local pitches to Australia's opening batsman during a historic Ashes series has captivated the nation and inspired a new generation of Territory cricketers.
Minister for People, Sport and Culture, Jinson Charls, said the awards reflect the vital role sport plays in Territory life.
"Sport is the heartbeat of our community. It's how we connect, stay healthy, and find common ground. Last night was about more than just accolades, it was about celebrating the dedication of those who represent us internationally and the volunteers who keep our local clubs running," said Mr Charls.
This year's ceremony marked a milestone in inclusion with the introduction of two new categories. The inaugural Regional Performance of the Year was awarded to Lachlan Dunemann, a standout multi-sport leader from the Barkly region. Meanwhile, the first Para-Athlete of the Year was presented to three-time Paralympian Tom O'Neill-Thorne, who also received the Steve Abala Role Model Award for his tireless work in disability sport and youth mentoring.
"To have role models like Jake, Lachlan, and Tom is a gift to the Territory, their journeys from grassroots to the world stage, is showcasing that Territory sport continues to thrive because of the dedicated people recognised here tonight," said Mr Charls.
The evening also celebrated legacy with AFL icon Andrew McLeod was inducted into the Hall of Champions, while Beverley Sinclair (Hockey), Amanda Bagley (Swimming), and Jason Eecen (BMX) were added to the Roll of Honour for decades of selfless service.
The 2026 NT Sports Awards winners are:
Sportsperson of the Year: Jake Weatherald (Cricket)Junior Sportsperson of the Year: Skyla Chatterton (Muay Thai)Team of the Year: World Aquatics Masters Swimming NT Team (Swimming)Volunteer of the Year: Chris Ponter (Cricket)Regional Performance of the Year: Lachlan Dunemann (AFL, Cricket, Darts)Local Performance of the Year: Tracy Village Razorbacks Women Div 1 (AFL) Masters Sportsperson of the Year: Anne Walker (Swimming)Para-Athlete of the Year: Tom O'Neill-Thorne (Wheelchair Basketball)Coach of the Year: Michelle Caden (Hockey)Official of the Year: Paul Carter (Swimming)Karen Schneider Safer Sport Award: Trent de With (Athletics - Parkrun)
