The annual Leicester Tigers end of season player awards evening was held last night Tuesday 2 May. The event honoured the players based on their performances in domestic rugby this season.
Among the winners were Freddie Burns who was named Player of the Year and Ellis Genge who received two awards for Young Player of the Year and Best Newcomer.
On receiving his win, Freddie Burns said: “I am extremely proud. It’s great to get an accolade like this. I’d like to thank the boys for their hard work through the season and the supporters, to receive an award like this is a great feeling. We have a big game this week against Worcester and hopefully we can push on.”
Ellis Genge, who has just agreed new contract terms with Tigers and earned a place in the England squad for the tour to Argentina this summer with his form this season, said: “From playing in the Championship last year to taking the step up to come here, I think I’ve developed as a player and learned a lot from the class players around me. I’m enjoying it here. It means a lot to pick up these awards from the supporters.”
The event, which was sponsored by courier and logistics company and official partner, DX Group also saw Telusa Veainu’s try against Worcester Warriors at Welford Road earlier this year get Try of the Season and was voted by guests on the night.
Other winners included Dan Cole, who picked up the Outstanding Service award. Cole has been selected for a second British & Irish Lions tour this summer and has 74 caps for England as well as making more than 170 appearances for Tigers since his debut for his hometown club in 2007/08.
Supporters and guests enjoyed a three-course meal in the Premiership suite in the company of the players and team management. Throughout the night there was also a live Q&A’s with key figures at the club including head coach Matt O’Connor and assistant coach Geordan Murphy, players; Mathew Tait, JP Pietersen, Owen Williams – and a warm reception for the retiring Marcos Ayerza, who was attending his final end of season event after 11 seasons at the club.
Leicester Tigers Wheelchair Rugby Team, picked up the #TigersFamily award and was represented by David and Kate Needham. The award recognises the broad appeal of the Tigers as well as the dedication and commitment of supporters and the people who interact with the club within the community.
Tigers head into their last match of the season this weekend (Saturday May 6, 4pm kick off) against Worcester Warriors chasing a play-off place. The Aviva Premiership play-off semi-finals and final will take place on the weekends of May 20 and May 27.
