Muhadjiri Hakizimana has won the Azam Rwanda Premier League Player of the Year award for 2017-2018 season.

The APR and Amavubi forward, 24, beat former APR teammate Djihad Bizimana and AS Kigali striker Jean-Claude Ndarusanze in the vote by topflight league coaches, captains and a select 16 journalists.

The 3rd edition of the annual awards gala was held on Thursday night at Kigali Marriott Hotel.

"I am thankful to all my teammates, fans and APR staff, if it was not for them, I would not be able to win the prestigious award. This is also proof that if I keep working hard, there is no limit to possibilities,” the Rwanda international said. "It’s been a fantastic ride this year.”

Hakizimana replaces former Rayon Sports’ Burundian skipper Pierrot Kwizera who won the title twice since it was established, in 2016, and last year.

The 24-year-old attacking midfielder joined APR in January 2016 from AS Kigali.

Other award winners

Musanze FC tactician Emmanuel Ruremesha won the Coach of the Year award after beating APR’s Serbian coach Ljubomir Petrovic and Mukura’s Christian Francis Haringingo.

Rayon Sports midfielder Kevin Muhire edged APR duo of Prince Buregeya and Lague Byiringiro to the Young Player of the Year award.

"It is a great honour to win the award, it is a result of team word and tireless work of coaches at Rayon Sports. I also congratulate Prince (Buregeya) and Lague (Byiringiro), they equally deserved this award for a fantastic season they have had,” said 20-year old Muhire.

For the first time, APR goalkeeper Yves Kimenyi claimed the Golden Glove after beating off Omar Rwabugiri (Mukura) and former AS Kigali’s Batte Shamiru.

Burundian Haringongo scooped the revelation coach of the year award.

Ndarusanze was also awarded on the night for his phenomenal tally of 16 goals in 30 league appearances for the City of Kigali-sponsored outfit.

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