The inaugural National Rugby Awards for England have been held in the Rose Bowl at Twickenham Stadium in London. Celebrating all things rugby across the country from mini rugby at grassroots level to the pinnacle of professional rugby. Players, committee members and volunteers descended upon HQ to be part of the fun.
Hosted by Sky Sports presenter, Alex Payne, the evening had a joyous mix of recognition and appreciation of all the hard work and commitment that goes toward the running of rugby union in England. Indeed RFU CEO Ian Ritchie complimented the fantastic turnout from all clubs and reiterated the importance of the evening in not just celebrating achievements but raising funds for the RFU Injured Players Foundation. The Foundation aims to be there for every seriously injured player now and forever working towards making the sport safer for all. Exceptional generosity from all attendees at the awards will surely have aided the cause greatly.
With 13 categories each consisting of a shortlist reduced from numerous entries down to 6, many clubs were present in full voice and resplendent in club coloured regalia. At the professional end of the spectrum the Zebra Architects Player of the Year (Professional) was awarded to a man in a rich vein of form from last season and hoping to carry it into the Rugby World Cup, Johnathan Joseph. After an excellent season for Bath he was duly recognised by his peers but due to England commitments was unable to attend so a Henry Thomas, similar skill set and pace accepted upon his teammates behalf.
At the opposite end of the scale but no less important was the award for Youth- Mini Section of the Year. Ultimately it is this stage of development that begins the nurtured pathway to the heights of success of players such as Johnathan Joseph. This category had some outstanding nominations including Old Bristolians RFC who have gone from six players nine years ago to 420 registered players. It was, however, Heaton Moor RFC representing Lancashire who took the award for their success in maintaining sides at all age levels. It is due to commitment to the sport at this level of the game that we as supporters get to reap the rewards watching our favourite international and club sides throughout the year.
The BMW Club Development of the Year award highlighted the RFU’s drive to expand and grow the game at all levels in the build up to the World Cup. Development of rugby has long been something that should have been at the forefront of all clubs minds and it is great that it is now being rewarded. In a tough decision for the judges Moseley RFC won the award for their ability to open a new £3.6 million club facility with the money raised without incurring any debt. The Championship side will now look to build on this and push to move away from the perennial relegation battle they have found themselves in over previous seasons. Special commendation should go to Littleborough RUFC in this category as they have achieved a great deal in terms of development in one season with the formation of the Pink Warriors, girls team starting with two girls and now having more than 40. The hard work and dedication to girl’s rugby has been outstanding in their little corner of Lancashire with all at the club deserving praise for their support and help.
The inaugural National Rugby Awards were drawn to a close with an exceptional portrayal of the values of the rugby family. The Lawson Keys Life Time Award went to John Nunn of Old Colfeians RFC for his dedication to his club and sport through 40 years at the same club as player, coach, volunteer and now President. Everyone in the room rose to their feet to applaud the achievements and sacrifice of one man to the sport that he loves. This encapsulated the ethos of the evening. It is hoped that the National Rugby Awards will continue from this inception to continue each year to bring all lovers of rugby from across the country together to celebrate each other’s successes.
Congratulations to all the winners and nominees from myself and all at Last Word on Sports, you all do our sport fabulously proud.
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