Harry Kewell and Aaron Mooy take Top Honours
Australian Football legend, Harry Kewell was honoured at a prestigious award ceremony held at the Crown Palladium in front of more than 400 guests. Kewell was awarded the player’s association’s top honour, the Alex Tobin Medal for his passion and contribution to the sport. Kewell was on hand to accept the prestigious award. Speaking to the 400 strong crowed, Kewell said that he was honoured to have been chosen by the current players to join the ranks of greats such as Johnny Warren, Craig Johnston and Joe Marston.
Kewell continued to thank the player’s association, saying that previous Tobin Medal winners such as Farina, Schwarzer and Marston inspired him and other players to achieve all that they have. Kewell finished off by congratulating all the other major winners on the night who truly deserved their awards.
One player who picked up the footballer of the year award was Socceroos star Aaron Mooy. The 26-year-old footballer was recognised by his peers for his excellent performance at club and country level. Mooy won his first PFA award after completing a tremendous 2016 season with Melbourne City, English side Huddersfield Town and of course the Socceroos.
Aaron was not available to accept his award in person but was connected through a video chat platform. Speaking via video link, Mooy said he that this was an honour his was certainly proud of. He went on to thank his family and his teammates for the support and the players who voted for him.
Lydia Williams Claims Woman’s Player of the Year
The Woman’s player of the year award went to the Matildas goal keeper, Lydia Williams for her contribution with Melbourne City and the national side. Williams is the second player in history to win the woman’s footballer of the year award for a second time. Speaking to the crowd, Williams said that she has experienced many highs and lows since her last award and was thankful for all the support and the backing of her teammates.
When she first won the medal, she was just breaking into the team. This time round, she was involved in many history making events that brought her skills and effort into focus. Topping off the winners for the night was Brisbane star striker Jamie Maclaren who picked up the Harry Kewell medal for the young player of the year.