The Council of Southern African Football Associations (COSAFA) has announced the introduction of its inaugural award which aims at inspiring the next generation of football players, coaches, and referees.
The Association announced the development on Thursday through its official website saying that the awards gala dinner will take place on April 19, 2024, at a yet-to-be-revealed venue, to appreciate the best performers, on and off the pitch, for 2023.
President of the Association, Artur de Almeida e Silva confirmed the development saying that the ceremony aims to pay tribute to those who continue to shine a positive light on the game in our region.
He said: “Southern Africa has long been a leader on the continent for excellence and this is a way to highlight the achievements of not just players and coaches, but also those who lay the foundations for success with the hard work and dedication they put into the game.
“It is important that we celebrate our achievements and inspire the next generation of players, coaches, referees, and administrators so that we can continue to grow the game in the region.”
The statement adds that the awards are open to all players and coaches from COSAFA’s 14 member associations: Angola, Botswana, Comoros, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia Seychelles, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, regardless of where they ply their trade from.
There will also be various lifetime achievement awards given to those who have helped shape football in the region over the years.
The following categories will have an award:
COSAFA Men’s Player of the Year
COSAFA Women’s Player of the Year
COSAFA Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year
COSAFA Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year
COSAFA Men’s Most Promising Player of the Year (aged 20 or under)
COSAFA Women’s Most Promising Player of the Year (aged 20 or under)
COSAFA Male Coach of the Year
COSAFA Female Coach of the Year
COSAFA Male Referee of the Year
COSAFA Female Referee of the Year
