THE recent 34th SP Sports Awards have sparked an important national debate.
The strongest reaction came from PNG sprint star Nelson Stone, who publicly questioned the judging process after once again missing out on the Sports Official of the Year Award for the 13th time.
His comments have raised questions that many sports followers across the country are now asking. How are winners selected? What criteria are used to assess each nominee? Who sits on the judging panel? And – is there any favouritism involved in the process?
The award was won by Willie Tamasi for his dedication and service to weightlifting and sports administration. Boxing official Mark Keto was named first runner-up, while Nelson Stone finished second runner-up.
Keto and Stone are both well-known figures in PNG sport. Their work has been highly visible over many years. They regularly appear in media reports, national championships and international competitions.
People are asking – Who is Willie Tamasi? The reality is that many sports administrators work behind the scenes and do not receive media attention. Some of the most important people in sport operate quietly without seeking recognition.
The judging panel saw achievements that the public did not see.
One issue that repeatedly appears after every awards ceremony is the difference between public perception and judging criteria.
Many fans judge nominees based on what they see in newspapers, television, radio and social media. Judges may use completely different measurements. This creates a gap.
Another category that generated debate was Junior Male Athlete of the Year. Weightlifting talent Lawrence Oala claimed the award ahead of volleyball player Leo Aisi and tennis sensation River-Jordan Hakena.
Throughout 2025, River-Jordan Hakena was one of the most talked-about young athletes in PNG.
The same discussion emerged in the Junior Female Athlete of the Year category. Weightlifter Ani Geua Gavera took out the award ahead of swimmer Jhaynali Tokome-Garap and squash player Timonaliz Kriebisch.
Sports followers noted that Tokome-Garap and Kriebisch received significant media coverage throughout the year.
Para-Athlete of the Year category also attracted discussion.
Dorna Longbut claimed the award for the third consecutive year. There is no doubt that Longbut has made a major contribution to para-sport in PNG.
However, many observers believed shot put athlete Morea Mararos had a strong case for the award and deserved recognition after an outstanding year of competition.
The Sports Media of the Year category also generated discussion.
TVWan’s Terry Longbut was named winner, a result many people supported.
The question is on a freelance journalist who finished as first runner-up.
That candidate has now featured prominently in the category for three consecutive years.
Why a freelance journalist continues to be recognised ahead of reporters working full-time within major media organisations. Should employment status matter?
If the award is based purely on quality of reporting, storytelling, impact and contribution to sports journalism, then freelance journalists should be judged equally alongside full-time media employees.
Nelson Stone’s criticism has opened an important debate. The questions being asked are not just about one award or one individual.
They are about ensuring that PNG’s highest sporting honours remain credible, respected and transparent.
The SP Sports Awards is bigger than any athlete, official or administrator.
It represents the best of Papua New Guinea sport.
After all, transparency does not weaken an awards system but strengthens it.
