Report On 2005/06 Presentation Evening
Backrow forward Chris (Larry) Williams scooped the top awards at the annual presentation evening held at the club on Saturday 17th June winning both the Player of the Year Award and the Players Player of the Year. Fellow backrower "Bobby-John" Pike picked up the newly commissioned Clive Burgess Memorial Award as the Most Promising Player of the Year. In a moving presentation, club chairman Colin Wilmott read out a letter from Clive's widow Sue in which she said that Clive would have been proud to have had this award in his name. Before presenting the award, former club coach of the 70's when Clive was playing, Colin Cobley, spoke of how Clive had come to the club at the age of 20 never having played the game and what a natural talent he had.
The supporters favourite was David "Divvy" Davies who picked up the "Old Codgers" Award presented by Colin Malson. Mr Reliability went to 2nd row forward Richard Gibbins who playing 27 out of 28 games throughout the season. This was presented by forwards coach Andrew Peacock who praised "Ging" for his attitude in games and training and for his willingness to learn and adapt to the new coaching style.
Tankards were presented to coaches Chris Garrett and Andy Peacock and captains Craig Saunders, who's playing career was curtailed by a spinal injury and his replacement Matthew "Doggy" Entwhistle. Chris Garrett confirmed that Doggy would be club captain for season 2006/07.
Colin Wilmott thanked the players for their commitment throughout the season and the supporters for their continued support. He praised the efforts of the small band of committeemen and recognised this by awarding the Clubman of the Year to Secretary John Jones and the MEM Award for services to the club to Treasurer David "Puffer" Powell. He also made presentations to retiring committee members Graham "Ianto" Evans and Stuart Berrow.
The final awards of the evening were made to Colin Malson and Cliff Loder who were recognised for their years of distinguished service to the club by being made Life Members.
The Chairman also confirmed that the club would be reforming the Second Team in 2006/07 which would play in the Pontypool and District League. He reminded those present of some key dates coming up:
1st July - Players Team Building Day at Garnteg Primary School Climbing Facility. All players meet at club 9.30 a.m.
3rd July - training starts - meet Woodland Road 6.30. Then every Monday and Thursday.
3rd July - AGM at club 8.00 p.m.