November 05, 2025 Read time - 3 minutes
Members/Partners
The WA Disabled Sports Association community came together for a night of celebration, connection, and recognition at the 2025 WADSA Annual Awards.
Hosted by Paralympian and WADSA President, Priya Cooper OAM, the event recognised the achievements of member organisations, athletes, volunteers and coaches who continue to make inclusive sport thrive across Western Australia.
Recognising Our Members and Achievements
Member Volunteer of the Year – Janice Saunders (Superfins WA)
Jan has dedicated more than two decades to disability swimming, leading Superfins WA with passion and creativity. Her work has strengthened opportunities for swimmers with disabilities and built a vibrant, inclusive sporting community.
Coach of the Year – Baxter Hutchison (Western Electric Sporting Association)
Baxter was recognised for his pioneering leadership in developing Powerchair Football in Western Australia. His innovation, mentorship, and commitment have created new pathways for athletes with disabilities to stay active and competitive.
Team of the Year – Vision Impaired and Blind Bowlers of WA National Team
This talented team achieved outstanding national results at the 44th Blind Bowlers National Championships, earning eight medals and a third-place national finish – a testament to teamwork, dedication, and excellence.
Community Service Provider of the Year – Cockburn Cougars
The Cougars were honoured for their Ability Hoops program, which gives young people with autism and intellectual disabilities the opportunity to learn basketball in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Jeff Hollands Award of Enterprise – Denise McMillan (Bowls WA)
Denise was recognised for her long-standing advocacy and leadership in advancing inclusive participation across WA sports, particularly through her work in lawn bowls and the State Sports Inclusion Network.
Junior Sport Star of the Year – Scott Topham (Powerchair Hockey)
Scott was celebrated for his outstanding season, leadership, and mentorship of younger athletes through the Western Electric Sporting Association.
Sports Star of the Year – Caitlin Hannen-Williams (Goalball & Blind Cricket)
Caitlin represented WA and Australia at national and international levels, excelling in both Goalball and Blind Cricket, while also mentoring young athletes through Blind Sports WA.
The Act Belong Commit Competitions Program
Proudly supported by Healthway, the Competitions Program provides opportunities for participation and healthy activity all year round.
This year’s winners represented an incredible cross-section of WADSA participants, with achievements across boccia, bowling, athletics, and more:
-
Boccia Pairs (Open Division) – Melissa Charles & Nathan Gleeson
-
Boccia Pairs (BC Division) – Janita Kelly & Damien Lee
-
Participation Championships – Levi Bennett (Male) & Jasmin Matthews (Female)
-
Ten Pin Bowling Singles – Katrina Knott & Jordan Hunter
-
Team Scratch Winners – Special Friends (Shayne Skerry, Jordan Hunter, Tim Macoboy)
-
Athletics Participation Championships – Kaleb Zijlstra
-
Boccia Singles – Fenton D’Rozario (Open Division) & Grace Panaia (BC Division)
Volunteer of the Year – Ida Saeidi
Ida began volunteering with WADSA as a McCusker intern and has continued to support Junior Carnivals and Act Belong Commit Championships. Her enthusiasm, encouragement, and positive energy make a lasting impact on participants and staff alike.
Congratulations to all nominees and winners, and thank you to Healthway and the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism and Sport for their continued support of the disability sporting community.
If you would like to become a Member of WADSA please contact [email protected].
“Lovely celebration of inclusive sport and the achievements of athletes from a wide range of fantastic sports. Congratulations everyone!
Thank you WADSA! “