Photo Credit: Supplied

Vanuatu captain and Central Coast Mariners star Brian Kaltak has received the prestigious National Honour Second Class Medal in his home nation following an incredible year of achievement for the central defender.

Kaltak received the medal from Vanuatu President, Nikinike Vurobaravu in recognition of this international and domestic success, including last month’s Australia A-League Grand Final victory over Melbourne City, making Kaltak the first ever Pacific Islander to win the biggest prize in domestic Australian football.

On the international scene, Kaltak was a key figure as Vanuatu played three overseas friendlies in June, including a memorable 1-0 victory over Mongolia in Bhubaneswar, India

Kaltak has been consistently outspoken in hoping that his success, both for club and country, can act as an inspiration and motivation to others from both Vanuatu and across the Pacific region in pursuing their football dreams.

Having earlier this year signed a contract extension with the Mariners that takes him through to 2025, fans across Oceania can look forward to even more success and recognition as the Vanuatu international’s career continues to go from strength to strength.