It was the season that almost never was due to the coronavirus pandemic, but through some excellent planning and guidance Nelson Bay Junior Rugby League Club successfully completed its 2020 season with a fitting presentation held at the Salamander sporting fields on November 8.
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Awards were presented to teams from under-13s to 16s, with the mini and mod teams conducting their own presentation days over recent weeks. A good turn-out of players attended the day, thankful that they were able to play a shortened season with COVID-safe policies and protocols.
The committee led by president Brooke Hill, vice-president Wayne Humphrey, secretary Lauren Cavana and registrar Nicole Pene-Moses were congratulated for their tireless efforts in ensuring that the games went ahead and all players, coaches, trainers and limited number of parents remained safe at all times.
There were some heroic performances throughout the season and while the club was unable to bring home a premiership in 2020, there was strong belief that the constant interruptions, uncertainty and restarts would hold players in good stead for a brighter, more successful 2021.
The Steven Lingard Award for Sportsmanship went to Beau Hill from the under-13s for his love of club, playing up in support of the older age group, and being Nelson Bay's 'Marty the Marlin' mascot.
"He was also a great help around the clubhouse. On the field he was a fearless captain who lead by example and made a huge impression on his teammates and the coaching staff," said Humphrey.
The Len Plimmer Award for the Representative Player of the Year went to Jarred Williams, after he gained selection in the Knights Harold Matthews side while a year young for the age group. "Jarred is a tough forward who has the makings of a big future in the game."
"The club has secured good sponsorship for the 2021 season, and is hoping registrations will open in December but we are awaiting confirmation from NSWRL due to some upgrades in order to fix the new registration platform," said Hill.
At the annual general meeting, the top four positions were re-elected. Development officer Ji Hill; coaching coordinator Richie Kinkaid; first aid David Slade, Leanne Jenkins; sponsorship office Dean Cavana.