Departing Ryan is player of the year

DEPARTING Ryan Hinchliffe won two trophies at Huddersfield Giants’ annual awards evening.

The 33-year-old fans’ favourite will retire after Saturday’s final game of the season at Catalans Dragons after two years with the club.

During that time, the forward has made 87 appearances for Giants, and was given a rousing send off by the fans during his last home game for the side – the defeat by Wigan last Thursday.

And his displays for Huddersfield were acknowledged as he was presented with the supporters player of the year award as a thanks for another season of tireless performances.

And the Australian also won try of the season after finishing off a spectacular team score against Hull FC in the Super 8s.

There were also two awards for Jermaine McGillvary, who picked up the Harold Wagstaff supporters association award and the outstanding achievement award (sponsored by Easy Fireplace) after his stunning World Cup performances that helped England reach the 2017 World Cup final. Prop forward Paul Clough was the winner of the coaches player of the year award, which was sponsored by KP Motor Engineers.

Adam O’Brien was voted the players player of the year (sponsored by GEO Survey) after enjoying an influential campaign for the Claret and Gold.

Aaron Murphy scooped the Giants on Tour award, which is voted for by supporters on away coaches, after another consistent season with the club.

Innes Senior picked up the academy player of the year award (sponsored by Fantastic Media) and Ross Whitmore was presented the Ronan Costello memorial award (sponsored by Senan Costello). Club captain Leroy Cudjoe won the community player of the year award (sponsored by the Huddersfield Giants Community Trust).