The event aimed to award outstanding players and celebrate the achievements of 2023. Nhlanhla Khoza was the biggest winner of the day, as he scooped two awards as the Best Player of the Year in the men’s category and Best Backline Player of the Year. Springbok sevens player, Delsy Mkhari, was named the Best Player of the Year in the women’s category.

Other players honoured were Kgopotso Ramawela who won the Most Committed Player of the Year; Moonlight Mathebula was named the women’s team Forward of the Year; Steven Mathebula was the Most Improved Player of the Year; Tebogo Ramolefe was awarded the men’s team Forward of the Year; and Hope Bureni as the Player’s Player of the Year.

Also read: Nkowankowa teams receive a boost

The team finished second in the league, and they plan to be number one next year. “Although we did not get what we wanted in terms of results, we are happy with how the team is growing. As far as the club is concerned, I’m pleased because we were able to run it efficiently and independently.

“Most of our players were selected in the provincial teams and we are hoping for a better 2024,” concluded Nkowankowa Rugby founder, Bryan Mashigo.