Local Legend: Kay Harris

Local Legend is the ‘heart’ of Nelson Roller Sports.

Kay Harris remains an indispensable figure of the Nelson Whalers Inline Hockey Club. Every Sunday, you can find her at the Nelson Skating Rink, meticulously scoring for the Junior/Senior Mixed.

As this month's Nelson Auto Glass Specialists Local Legend, nominator Alethea Stove praises Kay’s dedication, saying, “She does the official scoring at every tournament we have here in Nelson. She loves our club and generously gives her time and knowledge.”

Kay's journey with the Whalers began as a founding member in 1995, following her involvement in Roller Hockey (now Rink Hockey). Her commitment to the sport was sparked in 1991 when her son, Ben, started playing. “He was my main reason for getting involved,” Kay explains. “I was a member of the Roller Sports Committee before moving to secretary. During that time, the Nelson Whalers formed and grew from ten rowdy teenage boys into what it is today.”

The rink at Nelson is one of only a few member-owned facilities and after over 65 years, continues to be successful almost solely due to the volunteers that help run it. As one of the early Inline Hockey clubs in New Zealand, the Whalers hold a special place in Kay’s heart. “I just enjoy watching the games! I love watching the speed, energy and accuracy on the rink - it can be quite a graceful sport.”

Kay serves as the secretary for the Nelson Whalers Inline Hockey Club, Nelson Roller Sports Club patron, a lifetime member of the rink, and the vice chairperson of the Nelson Roller Sports Club. Despite not skating herself, she is actively involved in organising the manning of the public skating sessions, draws, and tournaments.

Kay also acknowledges the dedication of Alethea as the club's president. “She has been amazing, doing so much for the club. Although I took a break when Ben stopped playing, I never really let go of the club completely.” Reflecting on her long association, Kay says, “The club is a very fun part of my life! It occupies a lot of my spare time, but I love it, and love seeing kids and adults having fun out there.”