2017 SP Sports Awards

The Girls Empowerment Through (GET) Cricket program from Cricket PNG finished ahead of Hoops for Health (basketball) and League Bilong Laif (rugby league).

“Taking away the 2017 Community Sports Initiative award is a significant achievement for the Girls Empowerment Through Cricket program,” said Komang.

“This shows that the program has had social impact on the lives of our participants and also ripple effects to the wider community.

The guest speaker at the event, Lewis encouraged athletes to always work hard in their careers and to never give up.

Universally recognised as ‘The King’, Lewis played 31 State of Origin matches and a decade-long Test career spanning 34 matches.

“Plan what you want to do. Everyone wants to get to the top, don’t be disappointed if you don’t make it straight away.

“Also, plan some alternatives. If things don’t work out, there must be a second option.

The event, held at the Crowne Plaza hotel in Port Moresby, brought together the best sports athletes and officials from all over the country. Last night marked 25 years of the Sports Awards.

Guest speaker at the event, rugby league legend ‘The King' Wally Lewis, congratulated the winners.

“The Sports Awards are a chance for the athletes and officials to get some sort of recognition for the wonderful work they’ve been doing for the country,” said Lewis.

He also encouraged athletes and officials to never give up and keep their dreams alive.

Chairman of the organising committee, Andrew Runawery, said as of last Monday, only ten nominations have been received for the 11 categories.

“These have all come from the New Guinea Islands region,” said Runawery.

Powerlifting champion, Linda Pulsan, said winning the award was a great achievement for her.

“Just by being nominated already shows a great recognition, that there are people out there watching you and appreciate what you are doing, and it encourages and motivates you to continue to do your best for the country,” said Pulsan.