Congratulations to Tony and John Zinny for their awards they received at BBNZ Awards night last night.

CEDRIC CUDBY VOLUNTEER AWARD

Tony Eldershaw – Tony has been involved in basketball over many years, initially as a player before taking up refereeing. He has spent countless hours over the past 10 years working with and supporting referees in the associations across Taranaki; many young referees in the region owe Tony a token of gratitude for his support.

IAN GOODWIN SERVICES TO OFFICIATING AWARD

John Zimmerman – John began refereeing in New Plymouth, going on to officiate at a number of National tournaments during the 1980’s and 1990’s. In 2003 he became an NBL referee evaluator, and then a referee trainer – where we attended numerous national and regional tournaments. Since 2021 he has continued as a Regional and National referee trainer getting involved wherever he can.

LONG SERVICE AWARD (40 YEARS SERVICE)

John Zimmerman – John receives his second award of the night as we recognise his service to the game. He began his basketball days in 1965 when he first played in Waitara, then played for Inglewood High School, subsequently becoming President; a position he held until he moved to New Plymouth in 1987. He is actively involved in New Plymouth with his daughter Shelley in developing young referees from ages 7 and up. He mentors in the Taranaki Secondary School competition and is an encouraging figure in all the schools competitions in the New Plymouth and Taranaki region.