The recently renamed National Premier League Dion Bunt Cup honours one of New Zealand's greatest contributors to inline hockey, Dion Bunt. This prestigious title underscores the player-oriented nature of the NPL and celebrates a man who was instrumental in shaping inline hockey in New Zealand. Dion’s legacy is one of passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to growing inline hockey both nationally and internationally. Despite a recent leg injury that has temporarily sidelined him from playing, Dion remains an active figure in the community, saying he feels “overwhelmed, honoured, and humbled” by the recognition from Inline Hockey New Zealand (IHNZ).

Dion's journey into the sport began in his youth, and his love for the game quickly grew as he played across the country for various teams. From starting up the Nelson Whalers to representing New Zealand overseas, Dion’s impact went beyond just being a player; he was a builder of teams, an ambassador for the sport, and remains a mentor to younger players. Even with a serious leg injury sustained during a social game in 2023, Dion continues to give back to the sport by sharing his wealth of experience and knowledge with the next generation.

The renaming of the National Premier League President’s Cup to the Dion Bunt Cup is a well-deserved acknowledgment of his dedication to inline hockey. Dion was genuinely humbled by the gesture, his determination to return to the rink remains strong. “I’m not retired yet,” he assures us. Dion’s influence can still be felt, both through his coaching efforts and his keen eye on the future talent coming up through the National Premier League.

With players like Dion Bunt helping to nurture and inspire future generations, the future of inline hockey in New Zealand is brighter than ever. Dion’s legacy is a testament to the power of perseverance, teamwork, and passion for the sport, ensuring that the Dion Bunt Cup will remain a symbol of excellence for years to come.

• Dion Bunt: The Man Behind the Mask by Nadia Holland.

IHNZ have renamed the cup awarded to the winners of the Epic Warrior League, the Diane Thomsen Memorial Trophy to honour the legacy of the late Diane Thomsen. Diane passed on April 15, 2023. 

Diane was the president of the NZIHA (precursor of IHNZ) from 1999 to 2008 and was a leader in the sport's development in New Zealand. Diane was a key figure within the Kapiti Rangers club and became a visionary leader whose impact helped shape inline hockey in New Zealand.

From 1999 to 2008, Diane led the NZIHA with integrity, elegance, and a selfless desire to see the sport thrive. Her commitment was unwavering as she guided inline hockey through a period of immense growth, both in terms of local participation and representation at the highest levels overseas. Her ability to communicate effectively with national and international sporting bodies was central to the sport’s success during her tenure. Diane’s leadership ensured that inline hockey in New Zealand developed not just on the rink, but also through the administrative and organisational efforts that are often overlooked yet vital to any sport's success.

Diane’s life membership, awarded in 2008, solidified her enduring influence on the sport until her death in 2023. The Diane Thomsen Memorial Trophy will serve as a reminder that inline hockey is more than just what happens on the rink; it is built by the passion and commitment of people like Diane Thomsen.

• 2024: Willy Harvey - IHNZ Kaumatua
• 2022: Bill Over - Mt Wellington Panthers
• 2015: Krys Beardman - New Plymouth Ravens
• 2008: Diane Thomsen - Kapiti Rangers.

• 2024: Jess Craw - Rimutaka Renegades.

• 2015: David Carrington - New Plymouth Ravens.