Watson Nominated for Māori Sports Awards

Words: ACFC Media

Thursday 14 November 2024

Picture: Photot

AUCKLAND, New Zealand - Gordon Watson, the General Manager of Auckland City FC, has been named a finalist for Māori Sports Administrator of the Year at the upcoming 34th Trillian Trust Māori Sports Awards.

The prestigious event, which celebrates Māori sporting excellence, will take place at the Mercury Arena in Mount Maunganui on November 30.

Watson (Ngā Puhi), who has been at the helm of Auckland City FC for two years, is recognised for his leadership in guiding the club to continued success on the domestic and international stage.

He is also a board member of Māori Football Aotearoa, a member of the Chartered Governance Institute of New Zealand, and recently completed an Executive MBA with Massey University.

Watson remains actively engaged with FIFA through various initiatives, contributing to the global development of the game, and has also recently been offered a place on Otago University's Doctorate of Business Administration programme.

His nomination highlights his efforts in fostering Māori participation and representation within football, particularly in his roles as both an administrator and advocate for grassroots and professional development.

The Māori Sports Awards, established in 1991 by the late Albie Pryor (Ngāti Awa), honour Māori athletes, coaches, and administrators who have excelled across various disciplines.

Pryor’s vision was to promote and encourage Māori in the pursuit of sporting excellence, a legacy that continues to resonate today.

This year’s event is set to be a star-studded affair, with dignitaries, sportspeople, and celebrities gathering to celebrate Māori achievements.

A key highlight will be the induction of Riki Ellison (Ngāi Tahu)—the first New Zealander to play professional American football and a three-time Super Bowl champion—into the Māori Sports Hall of Fame.

According to the awards’ executive director, Richard (Dick) Garratt MNZM (Ngāi Tuhoe), this year saw a record number of nominations.

“It’s incredible to see the breadth of Māori talent succeeding on the world stage,” Garratt said.

Watson will compete for the award against high-profile nominees, including Dame Farah Palmer (Ngāti Maniapoto, Waikato, Tainui) for rugby and Aroha Tito (Ngā Puhi) for golf.

Watson’s nomination underscores the importance of strong leadership and cultural representation in sports governance.

The Māori Sports Awards will be broadcast live on Whakaata Māori on Māori+ from 6:30 to 8:30 pm on November 30, with a replay on December 1.

Finalists for Māori Sports Administrator of the Year:
Gordon Watson (Ngā Puhi) – Football
Dame Farah Palmer (Ngāti Maniapoto, Waikato, Tainui) – Rugby
Aroha Tito (Ngā Puhi) – Golf

This year’s ceremony promises to be a night of celebration and recognition, showcasing the incredible contributions of Māori in the sporting world.

For more information please click here.