The AUT University annual Blues Awards were dished out at a ceremony at the university’s North Shore campus in Auckland and Wilkinson had plenty to celebrate after being named Sportswoman of the Year.
While studying for her Bachelor of Psychology, Wilkinson helped create history when she scored the final goal in New Zealand’s 2-2 draw with Mexico at July’s World Cup in Germany.
The thrilling tie marked the first time a senior women’s team from New Zealand had picked up a point at a FIFA World Cup.
The accolade recognises sporting success, as well as academic excellence and contributions to the community.
Sportsman of the Year went to Tall Black basketballer Casey Frank while Cameron Leslie, a paralympic swimmer and national wheelchair rugby representative, was named Male Athlete of the Year and Blacks Sticks hockey international Samantha Harrison received Female Athlete of the Year.
The university Blues Awards are part of a tradition dating back to 1922 in New Zealand and earlier in England, where the colours of Oxford and Cambridge universities came to symbolise excellence in sport.
Wilkinson has played 18 ‘A’ internationals for New Zealand and has eight goals to her name.
The 19-year-old has also represented her country at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup and plays her club football in Auckland for Glenfield Rovers.

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