The Rural City of Murray Bridge has recognised its top local sporting talent at the 2025 Sports Awards, held last night, Thursday the 23rd of October.
Rower Victoria Seidel (pictured above) took out the top honour, named Sports Person of the Year for her 14-year commitment to the Murray Bridge Rowing Club and success at state and national level, including gold at the Australian Masters Championships.
Other major award winners included Graham Hunt as Senior Sportsperson of the Year, Taj Garrett as Junior Sportsperson of the Year, and Avah Thiele as Young Leader of the Year for her leadership as the first female captain of a boys’ football team and dedication as a volunteer.
Lily Miegel and Bianca Girdler shared the Coach, Umpire or Official of the Year Award, while Joel Eckermann was named Volunteer of the Year for his service to the Mypolonga Combined Sports Club.
Community and program awards went to the Murray Bridge Life Saving Club, which was named Community Club, Association or Team of the Year; River Murray Football League TV, which won the Sports Promotion Award; and Natasha Sky, recognised for her work growing female participation in motocross and sidecarcross through the Women & Girls Initiative of the Year Award.
The Wellbeing Hub and The Haven received the Inclusion and Diversity Award for their efforts creating safe and inclusive sporting spaces in the region.
Mayor Wayne Thorley, who attended the event, said the awards showcased the very best of local sport.
“Sport is at the heart of our community – it brings people together, supports wellbeing and builds lifelong connections,” Mayor Thorley said.
“It is important to celebrate our local legends and recognise their contribution – whether that is excelling in sport or making sport happen through volunteering, coaching or supporting a club. Each finalist should be proud of their achievements and we congratulate our winners on being recognised for their efforts.”
The annual Rural City of Murray Bridge Sports Awards recognise athletes, coaches, officials, leaders, programs and volunteers across 11 categories.
