Aspatria rugby union club held their senior awards presentation in the Bower Park clubhouse when coach Mike Scott gave his considered opinion of the 2022/23 season.
By his own admission it contained highs and lows, in equal measure having gained promotion to the new Regional 2 North league only by the skin of their teeth.
He said that Aspatria had started the new campaign as one of the favourites for immediate relegation but despite a difficult start had came to terms with this step up in class and went on to establish themselves as a ‘hard to beat’ side, finishing comfortably in mid-table.
Scott expressed satisfaction at the outcome and congratulated the playing squad on the achievement, particularly taking pleasure in the performance of the front row trio of Gaskell, Cavanagh and Sullivan.
Remarkably, both props, Gaskell and Sullivan, played in all 22 league games and hooker Cavanagh was not far behind on 20. A remarkable achievement given the rigours of front row play.
Scott shone a spotlight on areas that need improvement and did not hold back on his appraisal of what needs to be done to take Aspatria to the next level.
He outlined a clear pathway for the club and his intention to be competing with the best the league has to offer when the season resumes in September. Measures include better use of the newly refurbished gymnasium and players taking full advantage of pre-season boot camp style fitness sessions organised by Coach Benson.
Scott also gave notice that there would be at least three established players joining the club, with names to be released before training commences in July.
The coach also announced that his leadership group of four would remain intact but the on-field leadership and captaincy was being handed to Jack Gaskell. Jack will be supported by the experienced Jack Clegg and Phil Dixon with Josh Watson also continuing as part of the brains trust.
Master of ceremonies, Jack Clegg had started the evening with thank you gifts to the coaching team of Mike Scott, Graham Andrews and Derek Benson.
Awards for the season
TOP TRY SCORER : Grant Bethwaite
MOST IMPROVED : Guy Reed
MOST CONSISTENT : Jack Gaskell
MOST INFLUENTIAL : Ryan Scott
YOUNG PLAYER OF THE YEAR : Chris Graham
SUPPORTERS PLAYER OF THE YEAR : Joe Beaty
COACHES PLAYER OF THE YEAR : Arran Sullivan
PLAYERS PLAYER OF THE YEAR : Jamie Lightfoot
Eagles awards for the season
PLAYER OF THE YEAR : Riley Thwaites
COACHES PLAYER OF THE YEAR : Steven Stoddart
PLAYERS PLAYER OF THE YEAR : Jonny Miller
