Experience was only part of it. Grit, determination and the ability to peak for some key games enabled Wes Warren to annex the Enfield Ignatians’ first team Player of the Year award at the club’s ‘Oscars’ ceremony at Donkey Lane. The dynamic number eight, one of the best in his position in the London Two North-West league, and noted for his hard-charging darts from the base of the scrum, has earned high praise from friend and foe alike.The backrower has, of course, been therefore as it was his third such award.
William Bruce, having made great strides forward this season, has been recognised as the most improved player. Initially a second team player and very much on the fringes of first team selection at the start of the campaign, he has become an important asset.
The prop was also recognised at least year’s awards’ bash after picking up the Clubman of the Year accolade for his off the field work, and notably the social side and dining club. In fact Bruce opened his first team account against London Nigerians in December.
New Zealander, Johnny Dixon, also scored against the same opposition in the final away fixture, and the pacey utility back was recognised as “Top-trainer”.
The second team is on a high following the Herts-Middlesex Merit Table Plate Cup final success over Weston the following day, and the acting skipper in that game, Jake Baker, a tower of strength in the second row, was recognised as Player of the Year.
Winger Eron Dottin-Wilson, a cup-final try-scorer, and prop Stuart Blemings, another to have featured at Bramley Road, were respectively successful in the players’ player and most improved divisions.
Farhad Fayaz, a youngster going places, was tops in the Third Team’s Player of the Season poll, whereas Sean Bucknall was Players’ Player.
Ali Cook, the outgoing head coach credited with keeping the first team in London Two North-West, won the Clubman of the Year award.