2009 Presentation Night
Ballina Rugby Club celebrated a successful 2009 on Saturday night with the Annual Presentation Night. The Club enjoyed premierships in second and third grade and won the club championship for the Far North Coast Region.
Club President, John Leon, said that it was encouraging that the Club had so many promising younger players coming through the ranks and this would put the club in a great position for the years ahead.
Best and fairest for the grades were 1st grade Jacques Lotter and Andrew Burke, 2nd grade Liam Preston, 3rd grade Kevin Clarke and under 19s Jake Smith
Most Improved were 1st grade Adam Fisher, 2nd Grade Will O’Donnell, 3rd Grade Chris Hammond and under 19s Dan Johnston
Coaches award were 1st grade Chris Long, 2nd grade Jimmy O’Donnell, 3rd grade Grant Clements and under 19s Isaac Pratton
Highest points scorers were 1st grade was Kane Scott and highest try scorer Liam Preston. In a surprise to everyone Blocker scored no tries during the year.
Rookie of the Year was Adam Thomas, a well deserved winner. After a baptism of fire in one of the hardest positions on the field, Thommo held his own and will be stalwart of the club and the front row for many years to come.
Clubman of the year was John Leon. After serving as Club President for the last 2 years, John has also been actively involved in the club’s activities since 1988, as a player (retiring the last time at 53), coach and has served in all aspects of the committee. Whilst annoucing that this would be his last year as President, Chris Long, MC for the night, articulated the high level of respect John commanded in the Club adding that he hoped that John would continue to be involved for a long time into the future.
Recruitment for the 2010 season has commenced in earnest, if you are interested in playing for the Ballina Seahorses in 2010 contact Nathan Wallace at nathan.j.wallace@nab.com.au or visit www.ballinarugby.com.au
