Janita Kareta has been acknowledged for her outstanding contribution to the Rebels Super W 2020 campaign, being named Player of the Year during the team’s end of season awards on Friday night.
Prop Kareta produced a spectacular season, leading the competition in carries and placing in the top five for tackles after four games.
Rebels Super W Head Coach Alana Thomas said the honour was a fitting reward for the driven 21-year-old.
“She may be small in stature for a prop, but Janita is very strong and determined to be the best prop in the country.
“She’s a quiet achiever but a player that everyone wants in their team.
“She’s a deserving winner.”
Sally Kehoe took home the Rookie of the Year award.
In her first season of rugby, the three-time Olympic rower exhibited an insatiable appetite to outwork her opponents on the field.
At the completion of the Rebels 2020 season, Kehoe had the second highest number of tackles in the competition – a spectacular return given she only played three of the team’s four games.
“Sally’s defensive work rate was up there with the top performers in the competition.
“Watching her journey from November to now – scoring two tries against W.A – she’s a deserving Rookie of the Year.”
Nicole Emsley claimed the Back of the Year award in her first season with the Rebels.
“She’s the ultimate team player, who works really hard and is fiercely competitive on the field,” stated Thomas.
“Defensively, there’s a few players who have felt the full force of Nicola in this year’s competition.”
Fan favourite Melanie Kawa was awarded Forward of the Year after an inspiring first season at AAMI Park.
The Co-Captain provided exceptional leadership and intensity all season long and was a fitting recipient, according to Thomas.
“The energy she brings to the team is amazing.
“She’s always talking whether in attack or defence and constantly getting around players during the game.
“It has been a true highlight for me to be able to coach a player of her ability as a leader.”
