Christine Sinclair has been voted Canadian Player of the Year in recognition of another successful season highlighted by scoring the winning goal that qualified Canada for the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The Burnaby, B.C.-native was honoured from a vote shared by Canadian media and Canadian coaches.

She is one of two winners of the 2018 Canadian Players of the Year award. Her co-winner from the men’s side will be announced on Wednesday.

“Christine Sinclair showed that you can continue to add layers to your performance, regardless of age, if you work hard,” said Canadian women’s coach Kenneth Heiner-Møller. “Her great physical shape helped her play every minute for Portland Thorns FC and also led Canada to yet another FIFA Women’s World Cup.

“Her ability to lead her line as well as the players around her while at the same time performing at her level is simply remarkable and unique. Sinclair is a notorious goalscorer, but she should also get credit for her ability to set up goals. She is an important part of the build up play for both her club and our Women’s National Team.”

In 2018, Sinclair played all 2,160 minutes for Portland Thorns FC as they finished second in the league. She scored nine goals, finished tied for third in the league with six assists, won the Thorns Supporters’ Player of the Year award, and was named to the NWSL Second XI. In the playoffs, she helped the Thorns reach the final.

At the international level, Sinclair led Canada in goalscoring for the 15th time in 19 years, registering eight goals and two assists in 12 international matches.

She finished second on Canada with 979 minutes played as the women’s national team won eight of 12 matches, including a 7-0 win over Panama on Oct. 14 to qualify for the Women’s World Cup.

OTHER WINNERS:

Kadeisha Buchanan (2015)
Charmaine Hooper (2003, 2002, 1995, 1994)
Andrea Neil (2001)
Geraldine Donnelly (1999, 1996)
Silvana Burtini (1998)
Janine Helland (1997)