2023 Canterbury Rugby Awards – Representative Awards

Last night saw us tune into our Representative Awards, looking at the pathways that help create the future stars of Canterbury Rugby.

Women’s U18 Player of the Year – Loren Edwards (HSOB)

HSOB and Christchurch Girls’ High School standout Loren Edwards is this year’s Women’s U18 Player of the Year. Loren has had an outstanding year on the field, captaining her school’s 1st XV to another Miles Toyota Cup and South Island title, while also earning selection herself to the NZ Barbarians U18 side.

For Loren, it is a “proud achievement” to cap off a big year for the young tighthead prop. “To be thought about in this context and alongside some other great players is pretty special, so to win it, I am very proud.”

Finalists: Harriet Cochrane and Keighley Simpson (both University)

Dennis Young Men’s U19 Player of the Year – Liam Jack (Lincoln University)

Lincoln University’s Liam Jack takes home the Dennis Young Men’s U19 Player of the Year following a big campaign in 2023 which saw the young lock take his game from strength to strength both on and off the park, using his size to dominate the aerial contest.

A Christ’s College old boy, Liam has enjoyed his rugby in his first year out of school, saying “I really enjoyed my first year at Lincoln Uni. It’s a great environment with great coaches and people.”

Speaking upon receiving the award, Jack said “I’m really grateful to be representing my family and representing Canterbury, and to win this award is an awesome achievement.”

Finalists: Johnny Lee (Lincoln University) and Isaac Hutchinson (Marist Albion)

FPC Development Player of the Year – Fia Laikong (HSOB)

New to rugby, High School Old Boys’ Fia Laikong has made the most of her opportunities this season, being named the FPC Development Player of the Year in 2023.

“I’m new to the sport,” said Laikong, “but watching it grow and to see how many girls’ are now getting into the game, it’s been really rewarding to be a part of it.”

“This award speaks to the people around me, to do what I do, I wouldn’t be able to do it without their support.”

Finalists: Lina Pale (University) and Adi Vani Taleqa (Christchurch)

Stan ‘Tiny’ Hill B’s Player of the Year – Josh Loader (Sumner)

The 2023 winner of the Stan ‘Tiny’ Hill B’s Player of the Year is Sumner’s Josh Loader. A lock just like ‘Tiny’ Hill, Loader made the most of his opportunities during this year’s B’s campaign, continuously making a difference across the paddock with his tireless work and strong leadership skills.

Receiving this year’s award caught Loader by surprise, speaking to the understated nature of a man who lets his play on the field do the talking. “It’s a bit of a shock, but a massive and pretty special achievement. It’s also a big nod to not only the playing group, but the coaching group too in creating an environment where you think you can develop week-on-week.”

“Rugby gives you that opportunity to give back, seeing your teammates and your own development, it’s pretty cool to be a part of.”

Finalists: George Prain (Oxford) and Jae Broomfield (University)

Māori Player of the Year – Tamaiti Williams (Burnside)

A newly minted All Black in 2023, Tamaiti Williams’ stellar season continues with his selection as this year’s Māori Player of the Year.

Playing his rugby out of the Burnside club, Tamaiti made his All Blacks debut against South Africa during the Rugby Championship, before receiving selection and the nod to play a crucial role on the All Blacks journey to the Rugby World Cup final.

Holding great pride in his Māori heritage, it is amazing to see the growth in Tamaiti’s role on the field this season paired alongside the positive role model he has become for many Māori rangitahi who dream to represent their country, just like he has this season.

Finalists: Tahlor Cahill (Marist Albion) and Billy Harmon (New Brighton)