American import April Sykes was named Sydney Uni Flames’ Most Valuable Player at the annual presentation night held at Rydges Camperdown on Friday night.
The Flames signed Sykes for the 2012-13 season on the strength of her perimeter shooting, passing and ability to drive to the basket.
The 22-year-old Rutgers University graduate, who also played for the Los Angeles Sparks in the WNBA, didn’t disappoint, averaging 18.2 point per game and third in the league.
The award was presented by Jeff Epplett from Southern Design, the Flames Naming Rights Sponsor. Other sponsors in attendance were from Sydney Uni Sport & Fitness (SUSF), Sydney City Toyota, Rydges Camperdown, The Sports Clinic, Ralphs Cafe and Volvo Bus.
The Flames Most Improved Player award went to Jaimee Kennedy, a five- year veteran and defensive specialist, who this year added another dimension to her game becoming more of an offensive threat with a never-say-die work ethic.
The Coach’s Award went to Katie Rae Ebzery, who took her game to another level in 2012-13 including more of a leadership role on court.
Alicia Poto, coming off one of her best seasons, also helped the team in areas off the court. Alicia, who played a pivotal role in the success of the Stand Tall Stand Proud Indigenous Excellence Round, was named Club Person of the Year.
And Di Lowe, a Flames volunteer who assisted in various areas on game night, as Games Commissioner, helping with the Ovarian Cancer Round and travelling with the team when required, received the Flames Club Recognition Award.
The President of SUSF, Mr Bruce Ross, in welcoming 70 guests to the function, confirmed SUSF’s ongoing support for the Flames in the 2013-14 WNBL Season.
