Legendary All White Grant Turner has been honoured at the Wellington Sports Awards with his induction to the region’s roll of all-time sporting heroes.
Turner (63) was inducted to the Sports Legends of Wellington, with three others — Paula Tesoriero (para cycling), Grant Batty (rugby) and Sandra Edge (netball).
Announcing Turner’s inclusion in the list of legends at their July 5, 2022, function, the awards organisers said:
“Grant Turner played 71 games for the All Whites between 1980 and 1988.
“His most iconic sporting moment came in a World Cup qualifying game against Australia, flashing home a long-range header to advance to the next round in 1981.
“This unforgettable team made their first World Cup (finals) in 1982.”
Main photo: The 1982 All Whites. Grant Turner is third from left in the middle row.
Football’s Wellington legends
Turner joins a list of 61 Sports Legends of Wellington, an honour that began in 2003.
Turner becomes only the fourth football to make the roll of honour.
Past inductees from football are:
2005 — Marilyn Marshall (softball/football)
2010 — Wynton Rufer
2015 — Maureen Jacobson
What makes a Sports Legend?
Organisers of the awards said the induction of the 2022 Sports Legends of Wellington recognises Wellington icons of sport who have made an outstanding contribution as an athlete.
“The criteria, as set out by the Academy, are that the Legend must:
• Have a close allegiance to the Wellington area
• Be an athlete (as distinct from a coach or administrator)
• Be retired at least 10 years from top competition at the time of their induction
“Most importantly the Legends must be acknowledged icons who have made an indelible impact on our community through their accomplishments.
“Home of the Legends as part of the induction Legends unveil a plaque honouring their achievements. The plaques are displayed at the ASB Sports Centre in Kilbirnie, providing a permanent place of recognition. The public are welcome to view the plaques on the mezzanine floor of the ASB Sports Centre during regular opening hours.”
Turner’s famous header against Australia
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