Meshack Khotha

Meshack Khotha

Andre Williams of Eldorado Park has been inspired after winning the Golden Lions Rugby Union's amateur player of the year award at the union's prize-giving ceremony in Alberton last week.

The 27-year-old Williams plays for the Eldorado Rugby Club.

"I feel great to be honoured as the best amateur player of the season. I did not expect this at all," said an elated Williams. "I am going to work very hard to improve my performance in a bid to impress the amateur and national selectors.

"My ambition is to feature for the Lions team at the higher level, including Vodacom Cup, next season."

Wynand Moolman, manager of the union's amateur rugby, said: "He is the first player of colour to receive this prestigious award in the division.

"We are willing to help him to achieve his goal and as a result, he has been included in the 2008 Vodacom Cup training squad If he performs well , he will be included in the final squad.''

Babalawa Mpuqa from Berea was named women's player of the year.