North Shields RFC hosted the annual end of season match between the club’s older and younger players. Andrew Leitch captained the younger side while the experienced side which was led by Jon Kenny (with a couple under age players!) just edged what was a very entertaining encounter 34-40.
Before the main match there was a colts sevens match with the two sides managed by Steve Binks (Binkseys Battlers) and Ian Hook (Hookys Heros). With the result not being too important colts coach Steve Hodgson swapped players around to keep even sides.
The evening saw the annual club dinner and big surprise with the chef being revealed as former pro-boxer Billy Hardy. The former British, Commonwealth and European Featherweight champion who faced Naseem Hamed in a 48 fight career addressed the room and answers some questions from the floor.
After the surprise speaker Steve Hodgson presented awards to the colts. Captain Alex Fraser won player of the year and was also presented with a Newcastle Falcons shirt for his achievements this season. Max Smith was voted players player while Brian Naisbitt picked the award for most improved player. The final colts award is the Sniffer award for commitment and dedication which went to Jack West.
The County Sevens trophy was pre-presented to captain Alex Fraser and Joel Hodgson presented his England shirt to the club chairman Steve Binks.
The club president presented the awards to the senior players. Barry Cliffe won 1st team player of the year with Richard Sampson picking up the 2nd team player of the year. Rob Dixon was voted players player of the year and Jack Nicholson the most improved senior player. Finally 1st team captain and fixture secretary Jon Kenny was presented with clubman of the year.
