The 2024 TNM Super League Awards Gala was a memorable night of celebration and recognition, as several players, coaches, teams, and media personalities marked significant milestones by clinching prestigious awards for the first time in their careers. The event, which was held at the Bingu International Convention Center in the capital city for the first time in many years, brought together various stakeholders of Malawian football, with supporters and officials gathering to honor the outstanding achievements of the season.
The gala was particularly special, as many awardees broke their own records by etching their names in the records of the top-flight league some for the first time in their career.
Rookie of the season
The Rising Star award went to debutant Lucky Tizola, who not only surpassed his predecessor at Mighty Tigers, who claimed the Golden Glove in the previous season, but also showcased a superb performance, culminated by an impressive 14 clean sheets. This achievement made the KauKau boys proud to have a reliable pair of hands in their goalkeeping department.
Golden Glove and player of the season
Golden glove awardee George Chikooka was probably the talk of the night.
The Silver Strikers and flames shot-stopper made history of his own as he became first goalkeeper to scoop the Player of the Season award. His exceptional performances throughout the season (Keeping 18 clean sheets in 28 games), captured the attention of fans and pundits alike.
Best Defender
Enterprising Silver Strikers right back Macdonald Lameck, who had previously won Rookie of the Season in 2022, returned to the stage of stardom as he was named Best Defender of the Season after an impressive campaign with Silver Strikers.
Best Midfielder
Another first awardee was Silver Strikers midfield kingpin Uchizi Vunga who claimed the best midfielder of the season accolade.
Golden Boot
Isaac Kaliati of Mighty Wanderers, who made his elite league debut back in 2013 with Mighty Tigers, secured his first personal elite trophy at the 2024 awards gala by being recognized as the Top goal Scorer, having netted 17 goals last season.
Coach of the year
Another highlight of the night was when Peter Mponda, former coach of Silver Strikers (now with FCB Nyasa Big Bullets), was awarded Coach of the Year for the first time in his career. Under his guidance, the team ended an 11-year league drought, remaining unbeaten over a remarkable 29 matches, recording just a single loss.
It was a memorable night for Coach Mponda who was making his debut as a full time head coach having previously worked as assistant to Calisto Pasuwa at FCB Nyasa Big Bullets.
Best referees
The men in black were not left out as Mwayi Msungama was named the best Centre referee with Clemence Kanduku and Mphatso Mmatete named best first and second assistants respectively while David Chinoko was named the best fourth official.
The 2024 TNM Super League Awards Gala was truly a night to remember, as the league recognized the Most Disciplined Supporters for the first time. This honor was awarded to the Civil Service United Supporters, who demonstrated true sportsmanship throughout the season.
The night was not just a celebration for players and coaches; the media category also saw a number of first-time winners, showcasing the growing talent and dedication within Malawian football journalism.
