Omwony is Footballer of the Year

Kampala City Council (KCC) FC striker Brian Omwony was named Uganda Footballer of the Year for 2008.

He became a proud owner of a brand new Toyota Corona UAL 353A worth $6,000 – the most lucrative reward for a Ugandan footballer and cash prize of $600.

The awards, the first of its kind in Uganda history was held at Golf Course Hotel on Saturday night.

Thirsty six coaches from the Uganda Super League voted for a player hardly known 12 months ago.

Omwony shrugged off challenge from Cranes skipper Ibrahim Sekagya (Red Bull Salzburg), SC Villa playmaker Steven Bengo and Bunamwaya’s Caeser Okhuti.

The 22-year old forward, shrugged off the underdog status to the other nominees who are all seasoned national team players as his 15 goals last term led KCC to their first League crown in 11 years.

“I am so happy to receive this award and dedicate this to my late dad who always believed in me. I also thank the my Coach (George Nsimbe) who gave me the opportunity,” said the humble Omwony in his acceptance speech after receiving the award from Charles Bakkabulindi, the Sports Minister.

Sekagya, 28 took home two awards, the Professional Player of the Year and Most Valuable Player (MVP) accolades.

Having secured 37 points from a possible 39 in 13 games he was in charge to win KCC their 8th league title after 11 years of waiting, Nsimbe was the obvious choice for the Coach of the Year prize.

Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) FC goalkeeper Abbey Dhaira was named Most Promising Player for 2008.

Nile Breweries through their brand Nile Special are sponsoring the awards to the tune of $220,000 for the next three years.

Footballer of the Year
Brain Omwony (KCC)

Professional of the Year
Ibrahim Sekagya (Red Bulls Salzburg)

Coach of the Year
George Nsimbe (KCC)

Most Valuable Player (MVP)
Ibrahim Sekagya

Most Promising Player
Abel Dhaira (URA FC)

Best XI: A. Dhaira (Express/URA), S. Masaba (Police/SC Villa), G. Walusimbi (SC Villa), M. Doca (URA), J. Owino (SC Villa/URA), J. Bagoole (URA), D. Wagaluka (URA), W. Kavuma (Simba), B. Omwony (KCC), S. Bengo (SC Villa), S. Sserunkuma (Victors FC).