Players’ superb seasons are honoured at ceremony

THE Halton Spartans officially closed their 2017 season last week with their annual presentation evening held at the Everglades Park Hotel.

The formal affair saw coaches, players and off field staff recognised for their efforts during the campaign with everyone looking ahead to the 2018 schedule.

The first award presented was the Rookie Of The Year, sponsored by Newlyns Healthcare. An award dedicated to new players who have no previous experience playing the sport, the 2017 rookie intake saw multiple contenders who had each made a big impact on the season. An award chosen by the coaches, the winner was defensive back Josh Jackson.

During the season Jackson provided the defence with 15 solo tackles, eight tackle assists, one interception and five forced fumbles – one of which he returned for a touchdown.

Next saw centre Liam Tamber take most improved player, voted by the players.

Tamber made the switch from left tackle to centre after Jay Johnson suffered a knee injury that left him on the sideline for the campaign. From then on Tamber was able to go from strength to strength, largely down to his work ethic on and off the practice field.

Special Teams Player Of The Year went to running back Alex Martin, who was able to claim his second award in two years. Martin, who played a versatile role this past season covering positions on offence, defence and special teams, became the first player to claim an MVP award in all three units during the length of one season.

Offence Player Of The Year, as voted by coaches, was scooped up by tight end Steven Norton. He established himself as ‘Mr Reliable’ during 2017 with his size, catching ability and his tenacious run blocking.

Offence Players’ Player was handed to veteran wide receiver Tim Parr, who came to the Spartans this year from the Merseyside Nighthawks and quickly showed the quality he was able to bring with him from playing in the country’s top division.

Arguably the biggest success story of the night saw defensive lineman Dave Quinn claim both Defence Player Of The Year, and Defence Players’ Player Of The Year.

Leading the team with 11 total sacks this season it’s easy to see why Quinn was recognised by both coaches and players alike for his tenacity on the field.

Speaking this week, Spartans general manager, Ian Derbyshire, said: “The event was another fantastic night for the Spartans organisation, and the winners deserve every bit of recognition they have received. We are now able to begin with our 2018 plans, starting with our senior team open try outs in November.

“If you are interested in joining the team in any capacity, please do get in touch by any of our social media platforms for more information. Here’s to a bright future at the Spartans!”