The Finocchiaro CLP Government is proud to announce that nominations are now open for the 2026 NT Sports Awards, with two brand new categories recognising regional and inclusive sporting excellence across the Territory.
In 2026, the Regional Performance of the Year and Para-Athlete of the Year awards will be introduced, reinforcing the Government's commitment to equity, diversity and ensuring every athlete, no matter where they live or their abilities, has the chance to be celebrated.
The NT Sports Awards are the Territory's highest sporting honours, recognising the athletes, coaches, officials and volunteers who give their all to sport, from grassroots right through to the elite level.
Minister for People, Sport and Culture said the NT Sports Awards are about celebrating both our sporting greats and the unsung heroes who make sport possible in every corner of the Territory.
"New awards for regional and para-athlete performance are another way we're delivering for all Territorians, making sure talent and dedication are recognised no matter where you live or the challenges you've overcome," said Mr Charls.
"In 2025, over 80 nominations were received across 12 categories, and I urge everyone to get behind their local sporting champions and send in a nomination for the 2026 awards."
From swimming star Macey Sheridan, the 2025 Sportsperson of the Year, who stormed home with three gold and a bronze medal at the Australian Age Swimming Championships, to Bradley Fong, 2025 Coach of the Year, whose dedication to judo has doubled the number of accredited coaches in the NT, the awards have a proud history of honouring both champions and community leaders.
Nominations are now open and close on Friday 19 December 2025. Individuals, teams, clubs and communities from right across the NT are encouraged to nominate those who've made a real difference in sport.
The 2026 NT Sports Awards will be held in Darwin on Saturday 28 March 2026 and more information on how to nominate can be found at Northern Territory Sports Awards | Department of People, Sport and Culture here
