Etzebeth among big winners at SA Sports Awards

JOHANNESBURG - The 17th edition of the South African Sports Awards took place on Sunday night at the Sun City Superbowl.

National top athletes were recognised for their impact in various sports.

Springboks’ two-time Rugby World Cup winner Eben Etzebeth was the big winner, walking away with the Sportsman of the Year accolade. 

He beat canoeing legend Andrew Birket and boxer, Sivenathi Nontshinga. 

Sailor Kirsten Neuschäfer won the Sportswoman of the Year ahead of Tatjana Smith and Laura Wolvaard. 

Neuschäfer made history by winning last year’s Golden Globe solo round-the-world race. 

The Boks were named Team of the Year after winning their record-setting 4th Rugby World Cup crown last year in France.

It is no surprise that Jacques Nienaber took home the Coach of the Year crown, while Siya Kolisi claimed Sport Star of the Year and Mannie Libbok bagged the Newcomer of the Year.