Simpson and Goodman honoured San Remo Most Valuable Player awards

Thursday, April 21, 2011

New South Wales’ Gabi Simpson and Queensland’s Charlotte Goodman were honoured with the annual San Remo Most Valuable Player awards at the conclusion of the 2011 National Netball Championships.

Awarded annually, the San Remo MVP is presented to an individual in both the 17/U and 19/U divisions for their outstanding performance for their state or territory throughout the weekend long tournament.

For Simpson, the individual accolade was a cherry on top of an incredible week with the mid-court player part of the winning NSW 19/U National Championship team, and later selected in the 19/U Australian squad.

“I’m absolutely shocked and it’s such a relief to have the week over with,” Simpson said.

“The aim was to win the championship, we did that and that was all we wanted to do, this award is just a big bonus.”

“I think I played pretty well but I didn’t think I played outstandingly …  but I’m very happy with it.”

“It’s a bit overwhelming, I can’t stop crying.”

Goodman was awarded the 17/U San Remo MVP, an award that came as a surprise after the 17-year-old was sidelined through injury last year.

“It’s exciting but it’s come as a bit shock because I never thought I would win this award,” Goodman said.

“I didn’t think I had that great a tournament because last year I was out through injury so I’m just coming back.

“I haven’t felt myself or thought I played very well but this is really good to give me a bit of a pick me up.”

The defender was an integral member of Queensland’s third place finish at this year’s championships following an extra-time victory over South Australia on the final day.

“It hasn’t dawned on me yet but when I see my mum she’ll probably be crying so it will make it all real for me, I just can’t describe the feeling,” Goodman said.

“I’ll probably be jumping around the house later on.”