The 2024 Jack Newton Junior Golf Awards recognized some of the most talented and dedicated young golfers from across New South Wales, celebrating their exceptional performances and contributions to the sport.
Among the night’s standout winners was Derica Sacdpraseuth, who was named the 2024 Juniors on the Move Girl of the Year. Derica’s exceptional season saw her dominate across Sydney and Illawarra. She secured second place in the scratch and third in the nett at the J-O-M Medal in April with an impressive 13 under par. Her stellar performance continued with a second-place finish in the Girls’ Division at the J-O-M Masters in June, before capping off the season with a commanding 20-shot victory at the Jack Newton International 9-Hole Junior Classic. With rounds of 41–43–41 over three days, her success was a testament to her consistency and skill.
For the boys, Vincent Muller took home the 2024 Juniors on the Move Boy of the Year Award after a remarkable debut season. The 7-year-old from the Illawarra turned heads at his first J-O-M event, securing a podium finish at the Masters in Campbelltown. Vincent continued to impress, winning his division by 14 shots at the Jack Newton International in the Hunter Valley. With a final 9-hole handicap of 5 and a reduced GA handicap of 19, Vincent’s future in golf looks bright.
Tirzah Cho was honoured as the 2024 Under 12 Tour Junior Girl of the Year after a dominant season that saw her rise to the 12 & Over Division early. She triumphed in multiple events, including the Under 12 Sydney Week of Golf, where she won by an impressive 31 shots, and the Under 12 State Age Championships, where she claimed victory by 17 shots.
Similarly, Tristan Moanaroa took home the 2024 Under 12 Tour Junior Boy of the Year Award. At just 10 years old, Tristan excelled at major events, including a 12-shot victory at the Jack Newton International Under 12 Years Division. He impressed against older players at the Fayde Matchplay, and his crowning achievement came at the Under 12 Jack Newton State Age Championships, where he won by one shot after a dramatic finish, claiming three consecutive birdies at Lynwood Country Club.
The Most Improved Junior Girl Award went to Zoe Arcus, whose commitment to refining her swing and technique has earned her the respect of peers and coaches alike. Her focus and mental toughness were key to her development throughout the season, earning her a spot in the 2025 NSW State Squad—a well-deserved next step in her golfing journey.
On the boys’ side, Zac Oyston was named the 2024 Most Improved Junior Boy. Zac showed remarkable growth this year, earning his first JNJG title at the ForeGolf Junior Matchplay and a solid finish at the Bonville Champions Trophy. His hard work and dedication were evident throughout the season, signalling a bright future ahead in junior golf.
In recognition of their immense contribution to junior golf, the Services to Junior Golf Award was presented to the Nomads Golf Club. Over the last decade, the Nomads have played a vital role in supporting Jack Newton Junior Golf, providing crucial financial backing for tournaments and opportunities for young players. Their scholarship programs have made it possible for many junior golfers to access coaching and compete at the highest level.
Other notable winners included Kiara Connolly-Jackson, who was named the Jack Newton Junior Golf Master of the Masters – Girls Champion after a standout season. Kiara’s impressive achievements included victories at both the Illawarra Junior Masters and Greg Chalmers Junior Masters, as well as strong finishes at the Brett Ogle Junior Masters and Wagga Wagga Junior Masters.
On the boys’ side, Harry Whitelock claimed the same accolade for the second consecutive year. His stellar performances across the Junior Masters Series cemented his place as one of the top junior golfers in the state. Harry secured victories at the Peter O’Malley Junior Masters and Murray River Junior Masters, along with several strong finishes in other major events.
Michelle Bang earned the Junior Jean Derrin Trophy for the best scoring average of the season in the girls’ division, showcasing her incredible consistency and skill. Her victories at prestigious events, including the A.C.T Week of Golf, the Victorian Junior Championship, and the NSW Junior Championship, solidified her position as one of the top junior golfers in the country.
Sam Cascio, who claimed the Junior Vardon Trophy, had a similarly outstanding season in the boys’ division, with victories at the Brett Ogle Junior Masters, an impressive runner-up finish at the A.C.T Week of Golf, and a remarkable win at the Australian Junior Championship.
The Players Player Award went to Aksel Thomsen, who was voted by his peers for this prestigious recognition. Aksel’s positive influence within the Jack Newton Junior Golf community has made him a well-respected figure among his peers. His integrity, work ethic, and friendly demeanour have earned him admiration from those around him.
Camilla Kim earned Sub Junior Girl of the Year for her impressive wins, including the A.C.T Week of Golf and the NSW Junior Championships. Blake Cranston was named Sub-Junior Boy of the Year after a comeback victory at the Jack Newton International Sub-Junior Classic.
Sophie Eppelstun received the Renay Appleby Memorial Award for her dedication to golf and the community. In addition to excelling on the course, Sophie has shown a strong commitment to giving back by mentoring fellow junior golfers and supporting community initiatives.
Similarly, Nathan White was awarded the John Kinghorn Memorial Trophy for his dedication, character, and sportsmanship. A long-time participant in Jack Newton Junior Golf events, Nathan is known for his kindness and respect towards others.
The 2024 Junior Girl of the Year Award went to Rachel Lee, who made history with her win at the Golf NSW Open Regional Qualifier at Mollymook and demonstrated exceptional performance throughout the season, making the cut at consecutive Australian Opens.
Kayun Mudadana earned the Junior Boy of the Year Award after an outstanding season, highlighted by his win at the South Australian Amateur Classic and his representation of Australia at the Toyota Junior World Cup and USA vs Golf Australia Teams Match.
The Jack Newton Junior Golf Awards not only recognized the best junior golfers in the state but also celebrated the commitment, hard work, and passion that these young athletes bring to the game. As the next generation of golfing stars, these players are certainly ones to watch in the future.
