The 2024 Cook Islands Rugby Union Awards Night held at the Aroa Nui Hall in Arorangi on Saturday night was a remarkable celebration of talent, dedication and sportsmanship across junior and senior divisions.

In the junior division, Temana Paiti from the Avatiu Eels was awarded the Most Improved Junior Player of the Year for his outstanding growth and dedication throughout the season. His exceptional development set a new standard for junior rugby players.

The Best Junior Backline Player of the Year went to Tarataake Peniamina of the Arorangi Bears, who demonstrated exceptional skill and agility, consistently making a game-changing impact. Tumaru Maxwell of the Avatiu Eels earned the Best Junior Forward Player of the Year for his remarkable strength and leadership on the field. The Best Junior Player of the Year was awarded to Samuel Ravuaceva, celebrating his extraordinary talent and consistency.

This year marked the second season of the Senior Women’s Rugby Union, featuring two dedicated teams: the Tupapa Lady Panthers and the Arorangi Lady Bears. Despite initial challenges, the season saw a significant increase in young female players, showcasing the growth and enthusiasm for women’s rugby in the Cook Islands.

Shae Te Whata of the Tupapa Panthers won the Rookie of the Year award, sponsored by Donald Munro, for her immediate impact and potential for future growth. Erica Tumutoa, also from the Tupapa Panthers, was recognised as the Most Improved Women’s Player of the Year for her significant skill development and consistent effort throughout the season.

The Best Backline Player of the Year, sponsored by Donald Munro, was awarded to Mahana Sijp from the Tupapa Panthers for her mastery of position-specific skills and game impact. June Willie from the same team won the Best Forward Player of the Year for her exceptional physical play and consistent performances. Edon Teraitua of the Tupapa Panthers was named the Best Player of the Year, recognising her leadership, skill and sportsmanship.

The Team of the Year Award went to the undefeated Tupapa Lady Panthers, coached by Wallace Aroita and assisted by Munokoa Kopu.

In the premier men’s division, Jeremiah Tutangata of Avatiu won the Rookie of the Year award, while Henry Mataio of Arorangi was named the Most Improved Player for his outstanding progress throughout the season.

Jason Potoru from Tupapa was honoured as the Best Backline Player of the Year, and Kana Nga of Tupapa was recognised as the Best Forward Player of the Year. The prestigious Best Player of the Year award went to Jale Lagidela from Avatiu for his exceptional performances and leadership on the field.

The Coach of the Year award was given to the duo Wallace Aroita and Koa Kopu of the Lady Panthers for their excellent guidance and dedication to developing women’s rugby. Tina Iro of Arorangi was honoured as the Club Person of the Year for her over 15 years of dedication to the sport.

Willie and Mene Heather were awarded Volunteers of the Year for their significant contributions to the Maine Tueporo programme. The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Julieanne Westrupp for her over 20 years of dedication to rugby.

Match Official of the Year was awarded to Tua Ngaputa, recognising his professionalism and dedication on the field. Tony from the Arorangi Bear Cubs was named Ballboy/Ballgirl of the Year and Harriet Tuara was recognised as the Administrator of the Year for her outstanding organisational skills and commitment to rugby.

Cook Islands Rugby Union also inducted several remarkable individuals and a historic team into its Hall of Fame, recognising their exceptional contributions to rugby and the nation over the past 30 to 50 years. Among the honourees are George George Brian Williamson, Tekaotiki Matapo, and the 1971 Cook Islands 15s team.