SYDNEY Swans rising star Harry Cunningham has launched himself above all others to be named as Wagga's Senior Sportsperson of the Year at the Commercial Club last night.

After being drafted by the Swans in 2012, the Turvey Park junior has had a breakthrough year, culminating in being nominated for the NAB Rising Star award.

With the 20-year-old rated among the best young talents in the sport, Cunningham earned his nomination for the Wagga Sports Awards last month.

Cunningham was crowned Senior Sportsperson of the Year in front of a large crowd last night, an initiative sponsored by The Daily Advertiser and Sportsmans Warehouse.

Cunningham beat a strong field including former winner Alicia Quirk, NRL player Jack Littlejohn and record-breaking Wagga City batsman Jon Nicoll.

He is the second AFL player to claim the award since the Wagga Sports Awards' inception in 2007.

Hawthorn's Matt Suckling won in 2012-13 and Cunningham joined the likes of Commonwealth Games gold medallist Brad Kahlefeldt, who is the only person to win the coveted award twice.

The 20-year-old said it was an honour to take out the award.

"It's obviously a big honour and privilege to receive this prestigious award, which so many great athletes have won before me," Cunningham said.

"I have enjoyed a breakout season at the Swans after a couple of finals appearances in 2013 and off the back of a big pre-season.

"The team has been playing some good footy, which has allowed myself to play a role and ultimately have a breakout year so without the players I wouldn't have done so."

Preparing for the Swans' last game before their finals campaign, Cunningham was unable to attend last night's awards ceremony.

Instead, proud father Mark collected the award on his behalf, with Cunningham thanking his family and the wider Wagga community for their continual support as he continues his AFL journey.

"Thanks to my family and friends as well as the Wagga community for their ongoing support throughout my short career," he said.

"There's still a fair bit to go and achieve this year for the club and myself, so hopefully we can go deep into September playing good footy.

"Thanks again and congratulations to all the award winners on the night."

Cunningham was one of four major winners at the awards ceremony last night, where former Australian Test rugby league player Michael Vella and Greater Western Sydney chief operating officer Richard Griffiths were the special guests.