The Silver Ferns netball side have been awarded the New Zealand Olympic committee's top award the Lonsdale Cup in recognition of their World Cup success.
New Zealand captain Laura Langman holds the Netball World Cup trophy with Maria Folau, Phoenix Karaka and Shannon Saunders after victory over Australia. Photo: Photosport
The Lonsdale Cup is awarded annually to the athlete or team that has made the most outstanding contribution to an Olympic or Commonwealth Sport.
The award was presented at a gala dinner in Auckland this evening by the minister for sport, Grant Robertson.
The Silver Ferns beat Autralia 52-51 in the world cup final in Liverpool in July to win the title for the first time in 16 years.
NZOC CEO Kereyn Smith extended her congratulations to the team.
"The Netball World Cup win united the nation and inspired athletes around the country," Smith said.
"The team is generous and community focused, and are fantastic role models for girls and young women. I congratulate them and thank them for their contribution."
Minister for Sport and Recreation Grant Robertson presented the historic cup to Silver Fern Bailey Mes and Silver Ferns assistant coach Deb Fuller, who were in Auckland for the black tie dinner.
Silver Ferns head coach Noeline Taurua earlier was humbled with the award which she described as a privilege and honour.
"I would like to acknowledge the wider netball community who contributed to the Ferns success at the Netball World Cup and thank the New Zealand Olympic Committee for this special award."
Silver Ferns world champion captain Laura Langman echoed the sentiment.
"It's been a massive year of Netball and it's been 16 years since we last won a Netball World Cup, so to receive such a prestigious award as the Lonsdale Cup is a special moment for New Zealand Netball."
The Lonsdale Cup was first awarded in 1961, with Sir Murray Halberg the inaugural recipient.
Since then it has been won by a host of inspirational New Zealanders who have represented our country with pride and passion. Past winners include Dame Valerie Adams, Lisa Carrington, Sir John Walker, Barbara Kendall, and Sir Peter Snell.
Equestrian Sir Mark Todd was also honoured at the dinner after announcing his retirement from the sport earlier this year.
