All Black Ardie Savea has been honored as the best rugby player in New Zealand for the third time, a recognition that celebrates his remarkable contributions to the sport over the past season. On Thursday, Savea received the prestigious Kelvin R Tremain Memorial Player of the Year award during the New Zealand Rugby awards ceremony, adding this accolade to his previous wins in 2019 and 2022.
The 32-year-old loose forward not only celebrated his 100th test cap this year but also played a pivotal role in guiding Moana Pasifika to their most successful Super Rugby campaign. His outstanding performance throughout the season did not go unnoticed, as he was named the World Rugby Player of the Year for 2023. Additionally, he won the inaugural overall Super Rugby Player of the Year award back in May while two rounds of matches were still left in the competition.
New Zealand Rugby chief executive Mark Robinson praised Savea’s exceptional consistency, stating, “Ardie has a level of consistency that is unmatched, and his three awards tonight demonstrate that. He keeps raising the bar for what’s possible on an individual level and brings his inspirational leadership to every environment. He is massively respected domestically and internationally.”
In a notable highlight of the evening, teenager Braxton Sorensen-McGee was acknowledged as the Black Ferns Player of the Year in addition to being named the New Zealand Age Grade Player of the Year, after also winning the World Rugby’s Women’s Breakthrough Player of the Year award earlier this year.
This season’s recognition for both Savea and Sorensen-McGee showcases the bright future of rugby in New Zealand, marked by a blend of established stars and emerging talent paving the way for success in the sport.