MoMac Takes the Stage at 2024 North Canterbury Sports Awards to Honour Local Coach
The recent 2024 North Canterbury Sports Awards brought together athletes, coaches, and community members to celebrate the dedication and hard work of local sportspeople.
This year, MoMac was honoured to join the prestigious event as a sponsor, marking the company’s first time being involved in the awards. For MoMac Creative Director Ryan McDonald, being part of the awards was an incredibly proud moment for the Rangiora local who has followed the awards since he was a child.
“These awards are so important for sportspeople, especially those who are just starting out. It’s something to aspire to and an opportunity to celebrate hard work. I think it’s a great metaphor for life, pursuing something you love makes even the hard work easy and satisfying. That’s what got me to where I am today with MoMac.”
Alongside MoMac co-owner Michael Price, Ryan presented the MoMac Sports Coach Award to Liam Connelly, a former Rangiora High School student with more than 10 years of basketball coaching experience.
Liam’s achievements include being Canterbury Rams Assistant Coach (2023-2024 National Champions), 3×3 Canterbury Rams Head Coach (2023 National Champions), Head Coach of the New Zealand U17 Women’s team, and leading Rangiora High School Senior A Girls to South Island and Canterbury runner-up placings.
Ryan said he was thrilled to present this award as he believes there are many parallels between coaching and business leadership.
“Presenting to the Coach of the Year was very fitting because I see many similarities between coaching teams and leading a business. Both roles are about getting the best out of individuals, whether in a group or individual environment, to achieve results. I like to think of the MoMac team as a winning team, and I approach business with the same mindset.”
For MoMac, being involved in community initiatives like the North Canterbury Sports Awards goes beyond just showcasing their business.
“It’s important for us to show the community that we are a business that truly cares about our local area. We want people to see us and feel proud that we’re contributing to the community. We hope that resonates with people who are looking to use or refer our services.”
NC Sports Community Engagement Manager Caroline Whittaker said that the North Canterbury Sports Awards, which is in its 20th year, could not be held without the support of the local business community.
“NC Sports could not provide opportunities such as the North Canterbury Sports Awards without the support of local businesses. Having locals supporting locals not only aids the individual’s journey, but also creates connections, further opportunities and long-term benefits for all involved, whether by association, participation or spectatorship. For those who have achieved outstanding sporting status, it is only appropriate that they be recognised by their peers and the community from which they started.”
To learn more about the North Canterbury Sports Awards and the incredible athletes and coaches they celebrate, visit www.sportstrust.org.nz/mainpowersportsawards
