All Whites Duo Earn Recognition for Stellar 2024

A Year of Records for Chris Wood

All Whites captain Chris Wood has been nominated for Sportsman of the Year at the prestigious ISPS Handa Halberg Awards, following a groundbreaking season in 2024. Wood etched his name in history by becoming the first Kiwi and Nottingham Forest player to claim the Premier League Player of the Month award in October. His stellar form continued in November, where he surpassed expectations to become Nottingham Forest’s all-time leading Premier League goalscorer.

Wood stands alongside elite athletes such as Olympic gold medalists Hamish Kerr and Finn Butcher, triathlete Hayden Wilde, and world-renowned jockey James McDonald in the race for the award, solidifying his status as one of New Zealand’s premier sporting icons.

Tyler Bindon: The Rising Star

Defender Tyler Bindon has earned a nomination for the Sky Sport Emerging Talent Award after a phenomenal breakthrough season with Reading FC. At just 19 years old, Bindon clocked more minutes in 2024 than any other teenage footballer globally. His leadership potential was on full display on November 2, when he captained Reading in a historic FA Cup fixture, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career.

Bindon’s nomination places him among promising young athletes, including World Athletics U20s triple jump gold medallist Ethan Oliver, mountain biker Erice Van Leuven, and junior motocross champion Levi Townley.

Praise from the Top: Coach Darren Bazeley

All Whites head coach Darren Bazeley commended his players for their nominations, highlighting their pivotal roles in New Zealand football’s success:

“I want to congratulate Tyler and Woodsy on their very well-deserved nominations after both having brilliant years.

Woodsy has had an outstanding 2024 and continues to set new records both in the Premier League and in an All Whites shirt.

Tyler has enjoyed a breakout season, performing well ahead of other players of his age and becoming a crucial player for us and Reading.”

Bazeley emphasized their importance for the All Whites’ campaign in 2025, as they aim to return to the FIFA World Cup for the first time since 2010.