We're thrilled to announce that James Sandilands has been named Buddle Findlay Coach of the Year at the 63rd ISPS Handa Halberg Awards. James coaches high jump athlete Hamish Kerr, who received both the Sportsman of the Year and the Supreme Halberg Award. This is James' first win in the category.
James has guided Hamish Kerr to the top of the athletics world. His coaching, leadership and technical skills have played an important role in developing one of the nation's leading high jump athletes, whilst he continues to coach a strong group of high-performance track and field athletes.
James Sandilands pictured below with Buddle Findlay partners Helen Pryde, Sherridan Cook and Halberg Youth Councillor Amy Ellis
The finalists for Buddle Findlay Coach of the Year included Brendon Cameron (para cycling - track), Hamish McDougall (snow sports - freeski), Mike Rodger (rowing), and Cory Sweeney (rugby - sevens). The award winners were announced at a gala dinner on Monday 16 February 2026 at Spark Arena and broadcast on Sky Sport.
As a proud sponsor of the Halberg Foundation, we congratulate all the winners of the 63rd ISPS Handa Halberg Awards - New Zealand's premier celebration of sporting excellence, recognising the outstanding achievements of our nation's athletes, teams and coaches.
