Departing chairman Gary Millington, long-serving board member Kevin Wilcox and outgoing president Lee Lidgard were recognised at the 70th annual Counties Manukau Rugby AGM at Navigation Homes Stadium on Sunday.
The three men have made massive contributions to the Union through their service and were presented with gifts and fitting tributes.
Millington has led the Union through some of the most challenging times and has helped deliver some of its best ever financial results. Wilcox has served nine years on the board and made a huge contribution to the Union while Lidgard stands down after two years as president.
Karaka's Craig Hill was awarded the George Bell Trophy for service to rugby on the back of his outstanding contribution to the Karaka club. Karaka took out the John Nicholson Club of the Year for their efforts across all grades while Patumahoe picked up the Ultimate Game Day Experience award.
Maramarua's Brad Watson was chosen as the Volunteer of the Year award for his contribution to club rugby.
Pukekohe and Steelers loose forward Leo Ngatai-Tafau took out the Premier Club Player of the Year after helping his side to the semifinals. Karaka's Lindel Foueti collected the AS Wilcox Club Women's Player of the Year Award, while Brandon Roberts claimed the Referee of the Year for the third year running.
Former President and Counties Manukau stalwart Jim Coe was recognised for his outstanding service to the Union and elected as a life member.
In addition to recognising the achievements of many key people within the game, a new board was confirmed.
Sarah Bell was elected as the board's new chairperson, while Peter Fa'afiu, Andrew Foote, Trevor Strang, Renee Maxwell, Mika Taito, Tara Coe, Kosta Lianos, and Phil Mohan have been confirmed as directors.
Lianos and Mohan are the new board members replacing the longstanding duo of Millington and Wilcox.
Jack Kani replaces Lidgard as president, while John Bell from Maramarua RFC has been elected as vice president and Don Shuker remains as patron.
