Ben Calvert Left ‘Gob Smacked’ After Scooping Three Awards

Ben Calvert said he was gob smacked after picking up three accolades at glitzy Beverley ARLC awards dinner night.

Held at Hodgsons Pub Calvert won Top Try Scorer, Coaches Player of the Year and Players Player of the Year for his efforts in what has been a tough season for the Blue & Golds.

The individual awards on the night, however, were dominated by Steve Connolly, who walked away with the Chairman’s, Supporters and Coaches player of the year awards.

He capped off a fine season in which he was an ever-present by also sharing the Players/Committee award with Calvert.

A stunned Calvert told HU17.net;

“I was gob smacked with winning but very pleased and proud. I am really looking forward to improving more next year.”

“All of the awards mean a lot, but I’m torn between the Players Player and Coaches Player of the Year because it’s good to know your coach appreciates you and also the players.”

Beverley ARLC’s Ian Pollard said;

“Both Steve and Ben have had outstanding seasons. I would like to congratulate them both on their awards. They both fully deserve them.”

Rich Etherington’s fine season was also recognised with the Man of Steel award. The leading try scorer award was also shared between Calvert and Ryan Watkin.

Relative newcomer to the game Daryl Gregory took the most improved award and the Harry Jackson Memorial award for the seasons outstanding moment went to Dan Clarke.

Clarke performed the unusual feat for a prop forward of scoring a hat-trick of tries in a game against Bilton Sully’s.

Chairman Graham Ostler thanked the outgoing coach Guy Adams In his after dinner speech, he said:

“Guy came to us when we’re at rock bottom two seasons ago and has set us on the road to recovery and has ensured that the new coaching team have plenty to work with.”

“He intends to stay at the club and play again where I am sure he has much to offer.”

Preparations are already well under way for season 2014/2015 with weekly training sessions every Thursdays at the Leisure Centre.

These will revert to twice weekly a little later in the Summer. Pre-season training is set to be varied with some trips out to the coast for sessions on the beach.