The captain of the Kurukuru national team took home the gong after the official ceremony at the Oasis Restaurant in Honiara on Friday night and, as this year is the inaugural edition of the awards, goes down in history as the first person to win it.
Upon receiving the award, Ragomo said he did not expect to win and was surprised when he heard his name announced.
“I feel very honoured and privileged to win this award,” he said.
“Never in my life did I dream of or expect to receive such an award and I am humbled so much by this. I thank the government for recognising the efforts of us sports people.
“I also want to thank the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) and my family for supporting me in my career, as well as my Kurukuru team mates as without them I would never have reached this level.”
The prestigious award is the latest addition to the 20-year-old’s trophy cabinet, which was already bursting at the seams with a host of titles.
Ragomo was earlier named Young Solomon Islander of the Year and has also picked up plenty of personal accolades at various OFC Futsal Championships, receiving two player of the tournament and two golden boot awards.
But he said the latest accolade is one of the proudest moments of his career and is a welcome boost as the Kurukuru look to prepare for the 2012 FIFA Futsal World Cup, to be held in Thailand next November.
“This award has given me extra motivation and encouragement. I will work harder and I know my Kurukuru team mates will also do the same as we prepare for the World Cup. I feel I need to work extra hard to prove to the country why I received this award,” he said.
“My mesage towards other young people is for them to overcome their challenges and strive towards their dream. Despite the limitations our country is faced with in terms of sporting facilities, we should never give up on our passions.”
SIFF general secretary Eddie Ngava believes Ragomo is an inspiration to the country’s youth and is fully deserving of the recognition.
“He is the best futsal player in Oceania and this year captained Solomon Islands to its second World Cup,” Ngava said. “I congratulate him and wish him more years of success.”
For more on Solomon Islands football go to www.siff.com.sb

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