2025 SP Sports Awards launched, event to commemorate PNG’s 50th independence

The 33rd edition of the prestigious SP Sports Awards, recognizing athletes and sports officials and administrators was launched today.
The 2025 event will coincide with Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence under the theme ‘Legends of Sports: 50 Years of Excellence and Inspiration’.
PNG Olympic Committee president Emma Waiwai said the theme is a tribute to PNG’s 50-year journey with a focus on the progress of sports.
“This year’s theme holds special significance as we celebrate PNG’s 50th anniversary,” Waiwai said.
“We reflect on the journey of our sporting legends, whose contributions have inspired generations and elevated PNG’s presence on the international stage.”
13 categories will be featured for this year’s awards as it honors and celebrates Papua New Guinean athletes for their achievements both in domestic and international competitions throughout 2024.
The prominent sports occasion will also recognize individuals who made a significant impact in their communities through sports last year.
SP Brewery corporate affairs manager John Nilkare highlighted the nomination process and the increase in nominations in 2024.
“The online nomination has proven to be successful resulting in a significant increase compared to previous years,” Nilkare said.
“Last year we received a total of 223 submissions during the nomination period of which 209 were through online nomination.
“Nominations can be submitted through the online portal, via email, or by hand-delivering entries to the PNG Olympic Committee office.”
Categories:
- Male Athlete of the Year
- Female Athlete of the Year
- Team of the Year
- National Performance of the Year
- Community Sports Initiative
- Junior Male Athlete of the Year
- Junior Female Athlete of the Year
- Para-Athlete of the Year
- Sports Official of the Year
- Sports Media of the Year
- Sports Photo of the Year
- People’s Choice Award
- Stan Joyce Award