Robertson scoops top rugby award

an awards ceremony that was dominated by Harare Sports Club and Old Georgians.
The hardworking fullback made his debut for the Sables two years ago in a Confederation of Africa southern region tournament in Botswana.
The Sables star also scooped the Backline Player of the Year in the league awards having led Old Georgians to a successful defence of their league championship.
But it was his efforts for the Sables in the 2011 international season that helped Robertson grab the limelight through a superb defensive brain that saw him walk away with the top prize. His contribution for Old Georgians in the league was equally significant.
Pint-sized scrumhalf Charles Jiji, who made his debut for the national team this year and played all the Sables’ five games where he dazzled the opponents with his side-steps and perfect ball distribution from the breakdown, was named Backline Player of the Year.
Jiji, who is now based in England after securing a scholarship at Hartpury College, gave all the opponents in both the Victoria Cup and The CAR Cup tough time.
With a small frame, Jiji was blessed with a big heart that saw him rise to be one of the best players in the Sables. Front rower Denford Mutamangira was named the Sables’ Forward of the Year.
Not only was his effort good enough to see him come out as the best member of the Zimbabwe pack abut he was also outstanding in the league where his side Harare Sports Club were runners-up. And he also claimed the Forward of the Year for the NRL to make it a double.
Dragons winger Kudakwashe Chiwanza was chosen as the Rookie of the Year for the Sables and went on to grab the same title in the league. Old Georgians and Cheetahs’ captain Jacques Leitao was the league’s most valuable after he was voted Player of the Year while Harare Sports Club’s Sam Makuku emerged the Most Disciplined Player.
Red Lions’ flanker/eighthman Shingi Mpofu was the most Disciplined Player in the Sables camp while Germany-based Cheetahs and Sables winger Gardner Nechironga was voted Players’ Player of the Year.
This was the first time in a decade that both the Sables and the NRL celebrated their player’s achievements following the return of Lon Lager as the sponsors of both affiliates.
“Generally I am excited that the awards have come back and the clubs’ efforts will also be recognised.
“We know it’s not as much as they might have wanted but this is a starting point,” said NRL president and Sables manager Noddy Kanyangarara.