The Holy Spirit School principal has worked tirelessly to raise awareness for the prevention of melanoma since being diagnosed with the disease in 2016.

Mr Kean has been a guest speaker at many schools and is planning a charity bike ride next year to continue his fight against melanoma.

He plays C grade for the club while his daughter Ava has come through the junior ranks and is looking to consolidate her spot in A grade.

The fight against melanoma has personal significance to Sharks after they lost club stalwart and Ovens and Murray Water Polo Association life member Terry Upton from melanoma in 2011.

Sharks were honoured to have Annette St Clair, a personal friend of Mr Kean, present the award at the club's season launch at Brady's Hotel on Sunday.

Annette and her husband, Peter, lost their 23-year-old daughter Amie to melanoma 11 years ago. The Amie St Clair Melanoma Trust was formed in her honour and has recently affiliated with The Melanoma Institute of Australia to help increase services to regional Australia.

"We have taken the opportunity to recognise Matt's efforts outside of the pool," president Steve Millett said.

"His efforts are of special significance to our club.

"Matt has educated a lot of people and really helped get the message out there."

Michael Kelly received the Rising Star, William Gould was named More Than Just A Player, Tracey McLeod took out the President's Award and Leah Dodd was named Club Champion.

The Ovens and Murray season starts on Friday night at Albury Swim Centre.