Padio snatches Female Athlete of the Year Award

Papua New Guinea women’s football team skipper and Hekari United FC stalwart, Ramona Padio, has won the Female Athlete of the Year Award.

She collected the award during the 34th SP Sports Awards hosted on Saturday night, 30 May 2026, at the Crown Hotel in Port Moresby. 

Padio had a transformational year in 2025, displaying exceptional leadership and consistency in the PNG national women's team and setting a strong example both on and off the field. 

As captain of the PNG Bilums, she led the team to an undefeated run at the inaugural MSG Prime Minister’s Cup last year, where the Bilums claimed the title in Port Moresby. 

She also scored in the OFC Nations Cup final, where PNG finished runners-up, delivering one of the tournament’s best goals. 

At the club level, she helped Hekari United FC reach the OFC Women’s Champions League final, finishing as silver medalists. Padio’s consistent performances earned her a nomination for the Best FIFA Women’s 11 (midfielder).

The West New Britain lass said she was humbled and honored to receive the prestigious Female Athlete of the Year Award, which was her first time to scoop the coveted medal. 

She thanked the SP Sports Awards, sponsors, those who voted for her, the PNG Football Association, Hekari United FC, the fans, her family, friends, and teammates for their support. 

Captain Padio now looks forward to leading the Hekari United FC in the Women’s Conference Soccer League (WCSL), which will kick off soon. 

Hekari United FC, who are the defending champions, have won the WCSL four times. The team has dominated the domestic competition by securing four consecutive titles in 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025.