Coach Kate Sportsmanship Award

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Athletics North Queensland (ANQ) has announced the introduction of the Coach Kate Sportsmanship Award, a new annual honour that will recognise individuals who embody the values of sportsmanship, inclusion and community spirit that defined the life of the late Kate Colahan.

The award has been established to celebrate those who make athletics a positive and welcoming experience for others, recognising that the true strength of the sport lies not only in performances on the track, field, and road, but also in the people who inspire, encourage and support those around them.

Kate Colahan was widely admired throughout the North Queensland athletics community for her infectious enthusiasm, boundless energy and unwavering commitment to helping others. Whether she was cheering on athletes from every club, mentoring new competitors, encouraging officials or bringing a crowd together with her trademark dance moves, Kate made everyone feel they belonged.

Kate represented everything that is great about our sport. She celebrated every athlete, encouraged every volunteer and made athletics fun for everyone around her. While medals recognise achievement, this award recognises something equally important—the character, kindness and sportsmanship that strengthen our athletics community. We hope every recipient reflects the same joy and generosity that Kate shared with so many people.

The Colahan and Dickfos families said they were deeply touched by the recognition. “We are incredibly grateful to the Athletics North Queensland community for the honour you have bestowed upon Kate’s memory,” the family said.

“Kate loved everything about athletics, both as a competitor and as a coach. She had no boundaries—she genuinely wanted to help everyone, no matter their discipline, club, school or role. Most of all, we are thankful that she continues to be remembered by all of you.”

The Coach Kate Sportsmanship Award is open to all current Athletics North Queensland members, including athletes, coaches, officials, administrators, parents and volunteers.

Nominations may be submitted by members of the athletics community, with self-nominations not permitted.

Recipients will be recognised for demonstrating outstanding sportsmanship, respect, encouragement, inclusion and a genuine passion for athletics during the preceding 12-month period commencing from 20 September each year.

The inaugural Coach Kate Sportsmanship Award will become a permanent fixture of the Athletics North Queensland annual awards program, ensuring Kate’s legacy continues to inspire athletes and volunteers for many years to come.

If you know an ANQ member who embodies Kate’s spirit of sportsmanship, inclusion, encouragement and community, we’d love to hear from you. 

Nominate someone today: Coach Kate Sportsmanship Award Nominations

 

ENDS