Photo from the Vanuatu Sports Awards Facebook page

Port Vila (Vanuatu) - Vanuatu Basketball Federation grabbed the Technical Official of the Year and Coach of the Year awards in the first-ever Vanuatu Sports Awards organized by the Vanuatu National Olympic Committee on 27 April 2019.

Junior Mahit was awarded as the Techincal Official of the Year with his work as a referee in the VBF 3x3 Tour while also representing Vanuatu in the 2017 Melanesian Cup and 2017 Mini-Pacific Games.

Photo: Junior Mahit accepting his award

"I traveled using my own resources many times to officiate basketball competitions even if Vanuatu was not represented because I am passionate about basketball and I am proud to represent my country," shared the Ambae island native.

Meanwhile, National Basketball Development Officer, Sach Duthu took home the Coach of the Year Award. Duthu is also the 3x3 national basketball teams coach of Vanuatu.

Photo: Vanuatu Sports Awards Coach of the Year winner, Sach Duthu

"I'm standing here with this trophy in my hands, with a lot of humility and proudness. I've come a long way, and it's not just about me, but about the people that have supported me throughout the year," said 24-year old Duthu.

Duthu led the 3x3 Women's team in the country's first medal in a basketball event, when they secured the Bronze Medal in the Mini Pacific Games in 2017 held in Port Vila.

"We are proud of the awards we've won but this will not satisfy but will only push us to be better and improve Vanuatu basketball," Duthu said.

 FIBA