NEWS
New York Knights awards nightThe AMNRL Champion Knights held their annual awards banquet this past weekend, celebrating key contributors to their successful 2009 campaign. Below, a review of the awards.
MVP: Luke Hume, Halfback
In his first year as an import for the New York Knights, Hume brought an astounding 21 regular season tries against opponents combined with another five in the playoffs. Hume’s explosiveness and unpredictability as a ball handler, quickness on defense, and overall leadership make him this year’s AMNRL Champion New York Knights MVP.
Best Forward: Sean "Baby Face" Taylor, Prop & Lock
Last year’s New York Knight’s co-Rookie of the Year was top five on the Knights 2009 list try scorers and put out a stellar Grand Final MVP performance, as awarded by league CEO David Niu. At just 19 years of age, Taylor represents both present and future for the New York Knights.
Best Back: Chris "Scary" Carey, Stand-Off
On two occasions in the '09 Championship season, Carey had positive yardage greater than five yards with four would be tacklers riding coming along for the ride. On his back. One of the most feared AMNRL players going into a tackle, the former Columbia University football star and Old Blue captain, Carey proved a major addition to the Knights’09 backfield.
Best Rookies: Xavier "Jaws" Lozinguez at Second Row & Michael Cartwright at Hooker
Lozinguez and Cartwright made their 2009 debut in Rugby League after converting from Rugby Union, adding much needed bulk to the Knights set of Forwards. Cartwright was a difference maker in both matches against the Warriors, and Lozinguez had three carries exceeding 40 yards.
Most Improved: John Meoli: Wing
Reportedly a favorite target of fiery Head Coach Guillaume Cieutat in practice, Meoli had a decent 2008 season and kicked off ’09 with a rough start. But with Knights wing Steve Gowa struggling, the Shane Elford look-alike took charge at the position when it counted most with key tries against New Haven and Jacksonville late in the year.
Best Veteran: Ryan Coleman, Forward & Center
In the 2008 season, Ryan Coleman led the Aston Bulls to a Grand Final. In 2009, he lead the Knights to a Grand Final victory. Coleman’s experience and veteran prowess, just as much as his aggressive style of play made Coleman a key Knights acquisition in their championship season.
B.A.M.F.: Baby Face
Sean "Baby Face" Taylor, 19, may not be old enough to drink, but that doesn’t mean he can’t go toe to toe. This year’s blow for blow exchange with 38 year old Joel Venables of the Northern Raiders left Baby Face on top, and with the Knights annual B.A.M.F. award.
5 Year Awards Recipients: Shane O’Driscoll, Luca Loguercio
Best Clubman: Steve Gowa
To see all player profiles of the 2009 AMNRL Champions, click here.
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