Impetus’ Ben Gilby brings us all the news from the Australian Para Football Awards in the women’s categories (25/9/22).
Above: Katelyn Smith displays her Player of the Year Award today. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.
Goalkeeper Katelyn Smith was named Player of the Year at the 2022 Annual Para Football Awards held at the Southport Yacht Club on the Gold Coast.
A Perth native, Smith collected another piece of history on the night as she claimed the inaugural CommBank ParaMatildas Player of the Year title. Imperious for the women’s national team in their first IFCPF Women’s World Cup campaign, Smith was awarded the Goalkeeper of the Tournament following the team’s silver medal-winning run. The 26-year-old also claimed the women’s Golden Glove for 2022 to join her trophy from the World Cup.
Rae Anderson was awarded the Rookie of the Year honour, after her performances in the World Cup.
Eloise Northam took out the Goal of the Year Award for her sensational strike against the USA.
The final awards of the night were presented by former Paralympian Kurt Fearnley as he announced the Undefeated Champions for 2022. This category acknowledges and celebrates those players who have demonstrated their “undefeated” spirit both on and off the pitch. Tahlia Blanshard collected the award for the tireless and selfless promotion of her team and as a powerful disability advocate. Her consistent efforts across social media and through public forums have helped shape conversations, break down barriers, and show the next generation that anything is possible.
Impetus carried out interviews with a number of the award winners during the IFCPF World Cup – they can be read by clicking on these links:
Tahlia Blanchard: Driven By The Dreams:
https://impetusfootball.org/2022/05/30/tahlia-blanshard-driven-by-the-dreams/
Katelyn Smith: Living The Dream At The World Cup:
https://impetusfootball.org/2022/05/13/katelyn-smith-living-the-dream-at-the-world-cup/
impetusfootball.org 