Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club held their 54th annual awards Presentation evening last Saturday at the Sports Club. The occasion marked the end of a season hampered by poor weather and inadequate availabilty at times.
That said when the squad was at full strength they were a force to be reckoned with and if they were not penalised by points deduction by the RFU they would have finished comfotably mid table in the Durham and Northumberland Division 3.
The awards on the evening were presented to the following achievers. The most prestigious award which is the
Players Player, awarded to Drew Gibson a great team player who made the transition from wing to flanker and excelled in the new position all season.
Almost as important was the award for Most Improved Player which was duly awarded to Mike Dunn, who again learned to switch from wing to scrum half, and for a young player he has learned the game pretty swiftly and is fearless in his application on the field. James Thacker was awarded 2 trophies for top points and try scorer.
The committee went on to award trophies to others who have done great work for the club throughout the season.
Presidents award went to Cymon Lee, Chairmans award went to Tommy Cooper, Players Legend award went to Luke Crossen. Finally a special thank you award was given to out going Head coach Bob Malvern for his loyal service to the rugby club for several years. Well done to all.
A great occasion for all who attended and it must not be forgotten to thank all of last years sponsors to the club, in particular, Lift Right, Workshop Supplies and Taylor Haswell Steeplejack Services.
The club would like to remind potential new players to come down to the club when the new pre season training starts on Saturday 15th June 1pm start. You can contact club public relations officer Stuart McLean for details. Text 07812372675 or e-mail stuiemadgiraffe@yahoo.co.uk. This includes any school leavers who will be moving onto colledge next september. The pre season training starts with fitness and basic ball handling skills. All will be made welcome. So if you have been thinking about joining just come down. Time to be a rugby player and enjoy some great social craic, you wont be dissapointed!
