On January 15, 2025, the Ruby Hall at BMICH set the stage for an unforgettable evening as SPORTSINFO and the Institute of Sports Management hosted the 9th SILK Sports Awards. This annual ceremony, which began in 2015, continues to honor Sri Lanka’s sports legends, unsung heroes, and contributors who uplift the nation’s sporting industry. The 2024 edition highlighted achievements from the year 2023, cementing the event’s reputation as Sri Lanka’s premier sports awards ceremony.
The SILK Sports Awards were conceptualized to recognize individuals and organizations that elevate Sri Lankan sports. Over the years, the event has become a beacon of inspiration, celebrating the dedication and passion of those who bring pride to the nation through sports. With the endorsement of the International Olympic Committee, the awards now extend their recognition to international athletes and organizations.
A Rigorous Selection Process
A 10-member jury, led by Professor Rear Admiral Shemal Fernando and Dr. Harsha B. Abeykoon, oversees the selection process, ensuring transparency and credibility. The awards honor excellence across multiple categories, including lifetime achievements, coaching, sports administration, and journalism, among others.
Highlights of the 2024 SILK Awards
Major Awards
- SILK Lifetime Achievement Award: Micheal Thissera
- Duncan White SILK Award for Sports Excellence & Contribution: Aravinda de Silva
- Ranatunga Karunananda SILK Award for Sports Inspiration: Tharushi Karunaratna
- Yogananda Wijesundara SILK Award for Sports Management & Administration: Prema Pinnawala
- Lionel Mendis SILK Award for Outstanding Coaching & Guidance: Sanath Martis
- Bernie Wijesekera SILK Award for Sports Journalism: Prince Gunasekera
- Most Outstanding Sports Personality – Male: Aruna Dharshana
- Most Outstanding Sports Personality – Female: Chamari Athapaththu
Special Jury Awards – Local
- Outstanding Sportswoman of the Year: Nadeesha Lekamge
- Outstanding Local Sports Brand: Gordone Sri Lanka
- Outstanding Representation in an International Sports Body: Lakshmi Victoria
- Outstanding Sports Team: 400×4 Men’s Relay Team (Aruna Dharshana, Rajitha Neranjan, Kaushika Keshan, Kalinga Kumara)
- Outstanding Personal Contribution to Sports in Sri Lanka: Puvanasingam Vaseekaran
- Outstanding CSR Project: UNICEF Sri Lanka – Sports for Development
- Outstanding Contribution to Sports Education: Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
- Outstanding Para Sportsman: Samitha Dulan
Special Jury Awards – International
- Contribution to International Peace through Sports: United Nations
- Inspiring International Sports Personality: Novak Djokovic
- Inspirational Sports Book of the Year: Nicholas Brookes
The SILK Sports Awards 2024 shone a spotlight on Sri Lanka’s sporting excellence, reminding millions of the dedication and achievements of the nation’s athletes and contributors. As the event grows internationally, its role in inspiring future generations of sports enthusiasts continues to thrive.
