Brayden Fitzgerald - Victor Ludorum, Sportsman of the Year
Congratulations to Brayden Fitzgerald, who was announced at Northcote College’s Victor Ludorum | Sportsman of the Year at our Senior Sports Awards last night.
Brayden has proven himself to be a relentless, high-calibre competitor on the mat in Judo, capping off an extraordinary year of athletic achievements by being awarded a prestigious Massey University Academy of Sport First Year Scholarship for 2027!
Despite facing significant setbacks this season – including injuries and sickness – Brayden’s grit and elite technique have consistently kept him at the top of national competition. At the late-2025 National Championships, he produced an outstanding performance across multiple divisions, claiming the National Title in Junior Men (Under 60kg), taking Silver in Cadet Men (Under 60kg), and capturing Bronze in the Senior Men’s (Under 60kg) category.
Continuing his momentum into this year, Brayden earned a spot at the elite National Training Camp in January. He then dominated at the Auckland International Open, capturing Gold in the Under 60kg division and adding a Bronze in Senior Men. His exceptional performances earned him selection to represent New Zealand at the Oceania Championships in Melbourne, Australia. His selection is a testament to his status as one of the country's top prospects, though he was unfortunately unable to compete due to injury.
Brayden’s determination to overcome adversity and excel at the highest level makes him a truly deserving recipient of this award.
We wish you all the best in 2027
