Bay of Plenty cricketer Steven Rae is the recipient of a Sir Edmund Hillary Medal from the University of Waikato.
The cricketing all-rounder is one of two medal recipients given each year to Waikato Hillary scholars who have excelled academically and in their chosen sport or art.

Bay of Plenty's Steven Rae has been awarded for his batting talent and academic success.

The former Tauranga Boys' College student currently lives and works in Hamilton and plays his club cricket for Te Puke, where he captains the premier side. He also captains the Bay of Plenty Development team.

Steven graduates in May with a Bachelor of Management Studies(Honours)/Bachelor of Science with majors in accounting and statistics.

Currently working for Vazey Child Accountants in Hamilton, Steven has decided to study part time for a Master of Management Studies.
His research will look at the reporting and disclosure of sustainability issues within large scale mining companies.
His interest was stirred in the subject after completing two level-five honours papers in finance and accounting. He will remain on the Hillary programme.

He says it's been a real privilege to be a Hillary Scholar and receiving the medal is extra special.
'The scholarship not only requires us to keep on top of our academic study, but also provides extra sports coaching, leadership and media training as well as visiting speakers who often give us new perspectives and insights.”
He says while the impact and benefits of being a Hillary Scholar aren't always easy to assess, he's certainly developed as a captain and cricketer.
'I think the experiences and opportunities presented force us to open our eyes to what's possible, test us and give us a confidence to adapt in unfamiliar environments.”

Steven Rae was 19 when he started university and the same year he captained the Northern Districts Under-19 side.
Now, he's pushing his case to get some game time with the association's ‘A' side.