Lions win 2019 Gauteng Sport Team of the Year award - Enoch Nkwe named top coach

Held at the Sandton Convention Centre, Sunday 29 September, the Gauteng Sports Awards was a celebration of glitz, glamour and all things fabulous. Imperial Lions (formerly known as bizhub Highveld Lions) were proudly awarded the Gauteng Sport Team of the Year as well as head coach Enoch Nkwe taking home the Gauteng Sports Award for the Coach of the Year.

The Central Gauteng Lions (‘CGL’) and Lions Cricket would like to congratulate the team and  head coach Enoch Nkwe for the sterling season performance.

Jack Madiseng, President and Chairperson of the Board of the Central Gauteng Lions, is delighted that his team and the coach has been recognized:

“Our on-field wins were as a direct result of our off-field work ethic: The Central Gauteng Lions worked tirelessly last season and I personally am delighted that the CGL outfit have received this recognition. A job well done to all of my teammates!”

“Enoch’s mandate when employed by the CGL was to establish a healthy pipeline both in coaching and in player development. He worked hard at developing coaches as well as addressing previously disadvantaged communities, model C schools, assisting the u19 coaches and our academy team. One cannot forget the Gauteng Strikers winning the Africa Cup as well as his support of our women’s cricket. He has made immense contributions in his short stay with us and is thoroughly deserving of this accolade,” added Madiseng.

“We’re so pleased that Enoch and the team have been duly recognized for their dedication, passion and teamwork. Enoch is a good man and a great coach who inspires through his humility, leadership, experience and expertise,” commented outgoing CGL CEO Greg Fredericks.

The 36-year-old loaded the Lions trophy cabinet in his first season, having claimed the four-day series and T20 domestic titles. Adding further coaching clout to the former pro player, was the inaugural Mzansi Super League title with the Jozi Stars in the 2018/19 season.

Incoming CGL CEO Jono Leaf-Wright has worked extremely closely with Coach Nkwe over the last few seasons most notably in the Mzansi Super League and Cricket South Africa’s Talent Acceleration Programme.

“I have known Enoch as a coach and friend for many years and this award could not have gone to a more deserving person. Enoch’s desire for excellence is not only displayed in his daily coaching but also in the structures he sets up for the team and environment. Enoch is a fantastic coach and equally wonderful person who is a great husband and father. I am so proud of him and all he has achieved and will continue to achieve in his future years. Central Gauteng Lions and the greater sporting community salutes you, Enoch, and the team…keep dreaming big and impacting the lives around you. To the team, you were born to be the best.”