Sport Stars Crowned at Annual Metropole Awards

The Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS) and the Western Province (WP) Sport Council honoured notable sport achievers at the annual Metropole Sport Awards in Goodwood on Friday, 22 November 2013.

This was the last of four regional award events hosted across the Western Cape this month. Twenty-two proud winners received due recognition for their achievements on the night. The Sportsman/ Sportswoman of the Year awards went to WP and Springbok rugby player Eben Etzebeth and Natasha Hoffmeester (WP Rugby) for their outstanding achievements. Other notable winners include Hilton Langenhoven (Sportsman of the Year with a Disability) and Illse Hayes (Sportswoman of the Year with a Disability). The WP rugby team won the Federation of the Year Award for winning the Absa Currie Cup last year and winning a number of national age-group tournaments.

DCAS Chief Director of Sport and Recreation Adv. Lyndon Bouah thanked the nominees for contributing to social inclusion in the Western Cape and acting as role models in their communities. “We have many talents despite the scourge of drugs, substance abuse and gangsterism in our communities. School sport and sport federations have also played a major role in the success of this year.”

Mr Elton Davids of the WP Sport Council added that the evening was about celebrating the special achievements of those who have shown sporting prowess, key administration skills and determination to succeed. “You as sport personalities pushed the boundaries to become the best you can be. We’re proud to honour you as the best in the region. You are our champions today, tomorrow and in the future.”

Winners were proud of their achievements. Junior Sportsman of the Year and WP rugby player Cheslin Kolbe said it was an honour for him to be recognised for his contribution to sport. “I’m delighted that my hard work paid off. I’m indebted to my fellow players at WP for their advice and support during the year, for I wouldn’t have accomplished this without them.”