SMITH AND RALEIGH SCOOP WILDCATS AWARDS
The annual ‘Celebrate Wakefield’ end of season presentation night was once again a massive success with Tim Smith and Andy Raleigh scooping five awards between them to mark outstanding individual debut seasons in the red, white and blue.
Tim Smith and Andy Raleigh were the big winners at Celebrate Wakefield 2012
Sky Sports presenter Rod Studd was an excellent host for the evening at The Kings Croft Hotel in Pontefract as the event was enjoyed by the Trinity coaches, players, staff, sponsors and loyal Wildcats supporters as the players were rewarded with a celebratory event to mark a fantastic season after reaching the play-offs on Saturday.
The awards ceremony started after a delicious four course meal with live music from Mike Andrew, a top Robbie Williams tribute act, with Brian Brookes picking up the Johnny Thompson Clubman of the Year award in recognition for his 22 years working as a turnstile operator.
Smith was then named as Members Player of the Year (sponsored by West Yorkshire Windows) after taking the votes ahead of Danny Kirmond, Andy Raleigh and Ben Cockayne and then picked up the Kitchens by Design Try of the Season Award for his match winning score against Castleford Tigers at Magic Weekend.
Kyle Trout marked his breakthrough year by being named the Rising Star of the Year (sponsored by Key Security) after a season which has seen him make his Super League debut against Bradford Bulls and score his first senior try in the 44-40 thriller at Leeds Rhinos.
Raleigh then won the vote of his peers as Players’ Player of the Year (Sponsored by Spire Methley Park) and took home the Coaches Player of the Year Award (sponsored by Fleetmaster) too meaning he has won Player of the Year trophies at Sheffield, Hull KR, Huddersfield Giants and the Wildcats.
The final award of the night was the coveted Wildcats Man of Steel Award, and with 33 assists to his name this season, Smith was awarded the accolade.
The club wish to thank everyone who made the night such a success including the award sponsors including Kings Croft Hotel, Firefly, Rod Studd and Michael Buckley.
This is Wakefield. Together We Are Stronger.