CPL recognises sports stars

TWENTY-two-year-old Sebastian Pandia capped off a memorable season when the busting lock forward was named Port Moresby Vipers player of the year.
Pandia was among 20 other awardees who received their awards at the sports awards presentation hosted by franchise owner City Pharmacy Ltd on Wednesday night at the Aviat Club.
Vipers are sponsored by CPL’s leading business arm Stop and Shop.
And for the first time Rebels Netball Club who are also sponsored under the CPL brand were included in the awards night.
Pandia was lost for words when receiving his award and thanked his family for believing and supporting him all throughout the season.
“Yeah I was surprised when I heard my name and I did not expect to receive this award but I guess it goes back to having a very good season without any major injuries,” Pandia said.
The 93kg backrower  was a key player for the Vipers in this season’s Digicel Cup and admitted he was extremely satisfied when he represented the country this year in two matches.
“I will always remember this season because I made my debut for the emerging Kumuls and then got a call to play for Kumuls against Fiji in Mt Hagen.
“So 2011 was a very special year because I worked hard and achieved my goals,” Pandia, who is from Kogma village in Western Highlands.
The other sports night awardees were: Rebels – Kalyna Taule (most improved player), Marinama Maha (most valuable player), Kila Rawali (most consistent player), Winnie Mavara (player of the grand final).
Vipers – Pandia (player of the year), Josiah Abavu (best and fairest), Elijah Riyong (best back), Steven Johns (best forward), Bobby Mori (best forward), Noel Joel (most improved player), Toua Kohu (most consistent player), Kevin Frank (best defender), Eki Ene (best attacker), highest point scorers were Eki Ene (52), Josiah Abavu (52), Elijah Riyong (32), Roger Laka (28), Kevin Frank (24), Toua Kohu (24) and Noel Joel (22).
And the best supporter of the year award went to Theresa Pandia.