Humble and devoted Poppy awarded

Poppy Larson

Chrissy Harris GLA161111POPP

LUKE Woof had the sporting world at his feet, whether it was hockey, cricket, soccer or futsal.

He was an all-rounder, a good sports person and a prolific member of our community.

Unfortunately, Luke died after an accident in January 2010.

To honour his life and contribution to sport and the community, The Observer Luke Woof Memorial Award was inaugurated into the Yaralla Sports Star of the Year Awards.

The first year the trophy was awarded was in 2010.

"We were very proud of Luke, and still are, for his dedication and commitment to sport," Luke's mother Sheryn Woof said.

"It is an honour to be able to share Luke's memory and ensure it lives on through this award."

This year, Poppy Larson won The Observer Luke Woof Memorial Award at the 2011 Yaralla Sports Star of the Year awards.

Larson has been involved in netball since the age of five, progressing through the ranks and amassing an impressive resume.

From a family of high sporting achievers - her father Gary Larson was a former rugby league player - Poppy hopes to equal her father's achievements and one day play netball for the Queensland Firebirds and Australia.

"Humility and dedication were two attributes that Luke possessed strongly," Sheryn said. "He was dedicated to his sports and humble towards his achievements. A very humble young man.

"When deciding who should take the award, we look for someone who possesses similar traits to Luke. Someone who is also humble, dedicated and talented. Poppy is dedicated to netball and has been from a young age. Her achievements reflect this. She is driven and I think she can reach her goals. She also has a great support network in her parents, which is another important aspect of sport."

Poppy's greatest sporting achievements have been making the state league netball grand final with the Claws and making the Queensland under-17s team.