VALIANT BID
LOYAL Kangaroos forward leader Kieran Hayes has been rewarded for his spirited efforts in a difficult season with a shock Gold Medal win at the Cairns & District Rugby League’s end-of-season awards night.
The front-rower received the award, based on votes from the referees, at Brothers Leagues Club last night, holding on to a two-point lead going into the last round.
Despite Kangaroos’ Round 22 bye, Hayes (pictured), who built what seemed an unassailable lead with four rounds remaining, retained his lead to claim the win over Ivanhoes halfback Jared Verney.
CDRL secretary Pat Bailey said she could not think of anyone more deserving of the coveted prize for his loyalty and on-field conduct.
“He’s been there through the good times and the bad times and he’s 100 per cent committed to his club,” she said.
“He gives everything to his club and to everybody who coaches him. It’s absolutely great.”
Chris Galea from Innisfail was the Reserve Grade Player of the Year while Travis Nar- ducci from Edmonton picked up the award for the under-18s. Gareth Innes received the Rob Ambrum Memorial Trophy for his outstanding services to the game, including junior coaching at Southern Suburbs and assistance with the CDRL finals and the Northern Pride. It was a great night for Kangaroos after former president Brett Allen, who has been involved for 30 years since starting as a player, was awarded life membership of the CDRL.