Four athletes were recognised for their efforts this year with the presentation of season awards.

Gunnedah’s Gabby O’Gorman was a standout in the 13-strong NIAS tennis squad. She was named tennis’ athlete of the year.

Academy coach Dale Martin said the young star had an “outstanding year” and could consider herself unlucky to miss out on overall award hounours.

It followed her naming in the Australian merit side for the second time and her third year representing NSW.

Also to feature in the awards for Gunnedah was Aaron Osmond who collected the most improved gong.

Logan Dries was presented with the coaches award for a great overall year in the 14 years and under division despite battling a foot injury of late.

Meanwhile, clubmate Cooper Wilkinson was a joint recipient of most dedicated, alongside Armidale’s Sahra Dennehy.

The award recognised Cooper’s great work ethic and commitment this year. Cooper will represent the School Sport Association Tennis Championships at Albury in October.

The awards capped another brilliant year for local tennis where Gunnedah players filled half of the 13 NIAS tennis squad positions.

“It says a lot of our coaching and junior programs we have here,” Martin said.

He thought the improvement in junior talent pathways was also reaping rewards.

“The way north west tennis is structured, the better kids are playing in higher level competitions,” he said.

Martin picked up a little recognition of his own at the awards ceremony when presented with his 10-year service to NIAS honour.

He will join Jarrod Campbell (Tamworth) and Justin Sherriff (Armidale) on the 2017 NIAS coaching team. Player trial dates and final information for the 2017 squad will be released with applications opening August 22.

In other NIAS awards, Harry Snook won the coaches award for rugby and Eliza Perkins the most dedicated gong for netball.