Season sees rep talents blossoming
Chiefs Manawa have plenty to celebrate
The Chiefs Manawa celebrated the end of this year’s Super Rugby Aupiki season with their annual awards last weekend. The awards honoured the achievements of the team, highlighted outstanding players and thanked supporters, sponsors and management.
Chiefs Manawa head coach Crystal Kaua said rugby was more than just a game.
“Sport can be brutal, beautiful, fun and joyous and we have had all of that in our season. I have absolute belief that we will take these learnings and go on to be not just better on the field but as people beyond the game too.”
Loose forward Mia Anderson took out the Fans’ Player of the Year Award as well as the Players’ Player of the Year alongside captain Kennedy Simon.
Anderson debuted for Chiefs Manawa in 2022 and has had a phenomenal season after returning from maternity leave.
Meanwhile, Simon was recognised with three awards. In addition to the Players’ Player award, she also took out the Mana Koitate award, which acknowledges a player’s contributions to club and their community, and the top honour of Chiefs Manawa Player of the Year for her consistent performances and commitment.
Rookie of the Year went to Matatū transfer Grace Steinmetz who had an outstanding first season in the jersey, embracing a position shift from wing to midfield.
Steinmetz quickly adapted to the change and featured throughout the season for most carries and defenders beaten.
Forwards Victoria Edmonds and Grace Kukutai won Personality of the Year.
Edmonds’ and Kukutai’s friendship, which blossomed after meeting at the start of the season, brought abundant energy to the whole team.
Chiefs Manawa Award Winners 2024
Fans’ Player Of The Year: Mia Anderson, Mana Kotiate, Kennedy Simon
Personality Of The Year: Victoria Edmonds and Grace Kukutai
Rookie Of The Year: Grace Steinmetz Players’ Player Of The Year: Mia Anderson and Kennedy Simon Player Of The Year: Kennedy Simon