Hartlepool Rovers celebrated the end of the season in style with their annual club dinner and awards night. Members, supporters and guests came together for an enjoyable evening, beginning with a delicious four-course meal before hearing speeches from the team management.

The highlight of the night was the presentation of the individual player awards, recognising the efforts and achievements across the club throughout the season.

The award winners were as follows:

The 1st Team Top Try Scorer award went to James Keers, sponsored by Rovers Relics, after an impressive season that saw him cross the line 19 times.

Young Player of the Year, the Mick Hanley Memorial Shield, was awarded to Ellis Trimble, sponsored by Make Rovers Great Again.

The Supporters’ Player of the Year was also James Keers, sponsored by Rovers Relics.

The Heughers Most Improved Player award went to Adam Strong.

Heughers Player of the Year was awarded to Tony Cooper.

The 1st Team Most Improved Player was Corey Railton, sponsored by M&G Solid Fuels LLP.
The 1st Team Players’ Player of the Year was Craig Vincent, sponsored by Streetwise Driving School.
The 1st Team Player of the Year award went to Jack Gunn, sponsored by Fran Hockborn.

Heughers Manager Ian “Miffy” Smith gave an overview of the Heughers’ season, describing it as a mixed bag that was heavily impacted by a number of unavailabilities.

Outgoing 1st Team Head Coach Darren Smith reflected on a similar theme for the 1st Team campaign, which included some big highs and some tough lows. While the team recorded some outstanding victories, a number of close defeats and inconsistency in availability and selection made it difficult to maintain continuity. Despite this, there was plenty to be positive about, particularly with the influx of colts moving into senior rugby and a refreshed coaching setup expected to bring renewed energy to the squad.

Club captains Jack Gunn and Shane Jeffery rounded off the evening with heartfelt thanks to all players, supporters, staff, volunteers and sponsors. Special praise was given to Kelly and the bar team, along with Brian and Peter in the kitchen, for their continued hard work and support.

It was also announced that Ian “Miffy” Smith will be stepping down from his role as Heughers Manager. Heughers Player of the Year Tony Cooper paid tribute to Miffy, thanking him for decades of service to Hartlepool Rovers. Miffy has been a key volunteer across junior rugby, committee roles and his tireless work with the Heughers, leaving big shoes to fill. In recognition of his dedication, Miffy was presented with a framed shirt and voucher and received a well-deserved standing ovation.

Also departing his role is 1st Team Head Coach Darren Smith, who was presented with a framed shirt and voucher in appreciation of his four years of service leading the 1st Team.

Looking ahead, there are several changes planned to the coaching and team management structures ahead of next season, along with some exciting developments for the club. A players’ meeting will take place on Friday 29th May, with a 6.30pm meet for a 7.00pm start. All current and prospective players are welcome and are encouraged to make every effort to attend.