Sport, Arts and Culture on winners at South African Sport Awards 18th Edition

South Africa’s sporting heroes once again took center stage at the 18th annual South African Sport Awards, held at the iconic Sun City Superbowl—a night dedicated to honouring the champions, trailblazers, and unsung heroes who continue to elevate the nation’s sporting legacy.

This year’s edition, themed, “Celebrating Sporting Excellence,” paid tribute to the remarkable achievements of athletes, coaches, administrators, and media professionals who have not only excelled in their respective disciplines but have also inspired a nation through resilience, passion, and performance.

The 18th edition was a celebration of both legacy and new talent. From seasoned champions to rising stars, the awards highlighted the depth and diversity of South African sport. The coveted Sport Star of the Year and Team of the Year awards were claimed by Tatjana Smith and 4x100m Men's Team (Paris Olympics), respectively whose performances have captured the hearts of fans and brought pride to the nation.

Congratulations to all the nominees and winners of the South African Sport Awards 18th Edition. Your commitment, discipline, and excellence are the heartbeat of our sporting identity. You are the reason South Africa continues to shine on the world stage. You are, without a doubt #IzinjaZeGame.

• Sport Administrator of the Year -    Pholetsi Moseki (Cricket)
• Recreation Body of the Year -     Made for More Zama (Para Surfing)
• Sport Volunteer of the Year -    Phuti Leolani (Football
• Youth/Junior Sport Star of the Year -    Simoné Kruger (Para Athletics)
• Youth/Junior Sport Team of the Year -    SA U19 Tug of War Men's Team (Tug of War)
• Sport Visual Journalist of the Year -     Roger Sedres
• Sports Media Journalist of the Year -     Palesa Manaleng
• Technical Official of the Year -    Ernesta Strydom (Para Cycling)
• National Federation of the Year -    South African Rugby Union (Rugby)
• Sport Team of the Year -    4x100m Men's Team (Paris Olympics)
• Coach of the Year -    Rocco Meiring (Swimming)
• Sportswoman of the Year with a Disability -    Simoné Kruger (Para Athletics)
• Sportsman of the Year with a Disability -    Mpumelelo Mhlongo (Para Athletics)
• Sportswoman of the Year -     Tatjana Smith (Swimming)
• Sportsman of the Year -   Alan Hartherly (Cycling)
• Sport Star of the Year -    Tatjana Smith (Swimming)

For media enquiries:

Ms Zimasa Velaphi, Head of Communication and Marketing: Department of Sport, Arts and Culture
Email: ZimasaV@dsac.gov.za 
Cell: +27 (0) 72 172 8925

Ms Stacey-Lee Khojane, Spokesperson: Office of the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture
Email: StaceyK@dsac.gov.za 
Cell: +27 77 608 7579

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