The ceremony took place at the Sandton Convention Center, in Johannesburg (South Africa), with Emiliano being the big winner of the night in his category, leaving behind names like Arsénio Maranguele (Mozambique) and Abongile Tom (South Africa).
From South Africa, the referee originally from Huíla told Angop that this “is another achievement, a historic feat that marks Angolan arbitration, not least because it is the first of its kind”.
Emiliano also stated that this distinction could represent more visibility and opportunities for Angolan arbitration, which could start to be seen in a different way. “It is an added value for all of us Angolan referees, to be at a gala among the best, this demonstrates that our work is being done well at the level of our area and beyond, and that it will also make Angolan refereeing seen and accompanied in another way”, he highlighted.
It is worth remembering that Jerson Emiliano had already been distinguished as ‘Best Young Referee’ at Girabola in 2007, being considered best assistant referee four times by Claque Magazine. This is, however, the first international distinction for the Angolan, who returns to the country this Friday.
The inaugural edition of the COSAFA Awards, awarded by the Council of Southern African Football Associations, wanted to honor and distinguish the best performances on and off the field in 2023. Coaches, referees and other participants in the sport from the southern region of Africa.
For COSAFA, the 'Player of the Year' is Percy Tau, from South Africa. The 'Coach of the Year' is Rulani Mokwena, from Mamelodi Sundowns, and from the same team are the 'Goalkeeper of the Year', Ronwen Williams and the 'Most Promising Player', Thapelo Maseko, both South Africans.
Awards were also given in the 'Lifetime Achievement' category to those who have made a mark on football in the region over several decades, with emphasis on Janine van Wyk, former professional football player from South Africa, former captain of the national team.
