David Drane Award

David Drane Award

Awarded as an Encouragement Award and named after David who initiated the development of the Gippsland Sport Academy.

This award is presented to an athlete that has shown consistent improvement in their sport.

Past Winners:

2025Xavier GraySwimming
2024Campbell ScottTennis
2023Zakari ShieffelbeinHockey
2022Ash NicolesSwimming
2021Alexandra LudersTennis
2020Olivia BaillieSwimming
2019Jordan JohnstonTennis
2018Molly CargillSwimming
2017Ben GrumleyTennis
2016Tatum CotterrellGymnastics

Alex-Vuillermin-rowing

The Gippsland Sports Academy has played a significant role in shaping me both as an athlete and as a person. From a young age, my involvement in volleyball, progressing into rowing, helped me develop a strong, disciplined mindset of consistency and accountability. The support, coaching, and high-performance environment encouraged me to push through comfort zones while maintaining focus under pressure, while also bridging opportunities with the Victorian Institute of Sport. The Academy also taught me how to carry myself with professionalism and composure on the world stage, representing not just myself but my team, region, and country. The Gippsland Sports Academy will forever hold a place in my heart. 

~ Alex Vuillermin