Wisbech Rugby Club dedicated their Club Person of the Year accolade to its entire first-team squad at its annual awards evening at the weekend.
In breaking with custom, the award was shared between the whole squad after a difficult campaign following the tragic loss of Arturas Rudys last October.
Rudys, 27, died after a collision with another player during a match between Wisbech and Diss at Harefield Road.
Director of Rugby Leonard Veenendaal said: "In the face of adversity and a difficult chapter in the club's history, the boys stuck together, battling to the end.
"First team back row Bradley Williams stepped up and played such a significant part on that tragic afternoon on October 14 when team-mate Arturas Rudys lost his life while playing for Wisbech 1st XV.
"He was asked to collect the award on behalf of the squad and every player who pulled on a red shirt this past season for the club and town."
Veenendaal hosted the ceremony with 1st XV vice-captain Solomon Prestidge handing out the awards, which were sponsored by Elgoods.
Reflecting on the season, Veenendaal added: "Having won Counties 2 Eastern Counties 2022/23 league, the 1st XV were promoted and the club found itself playing at the highest league level it has ever competed in.
"Injuries and unavailability proved a major obstacle which resulted in us being on the wrong side of the results.
"The two times we were able to field a full-strength side, and we came away with resounding wins showing we are more than cable of competing at a higher level.
"The positive to take from it is the learning, especially for the younger players and taking this invaluable experience when we return to the Counties 2 Eastern Counties League in September."
Volunteers who had contributed exceptional voluntary service to the club over and above their normal duties were: secretary Dave Dobson, photographer Andy Titmuss, AGR chair Marcus Hall, facilities officer Josh Anderson, club treasurer Tracy Veenendaal and 1st XV captain Jack Malkin.
The Chairman’s Cup was shared by Luke Hare and George Overland for their dedicated contribution to coaching junior players on Sundays.
Most Promising Young Player of the Year was also shared between young backrowers Ari Baghdouyan and Owen Ketteringham.
1st XV Award for #Commitment #Pride #Passion on and off the field went to player-coach Gerhard Wessels.
1st XV Award for Top Try Scorer 2023/24: Raimondas Vinksna (8).
1st XV Award for Top Points Scorer 2023/24: Jack Malkin (83).
1st XV Most improved of the Year was shared by Ari Baghdouyan and Lucas Hardy
1st XV Player’s Player of the Year: Ethan Garford.
1st XV Player of the Year: Samuel Anderson.
