Panthers celebrate

By Contributed

Dec 13, 2021

A well-attended grand finale celebration was had by all at the Benalla All Blacks Football and Netball Club last Saturday night.

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In what was the culmination of a stop-start season, the club community gathered in fine spirit to celebrate not only the climax of the season, but to recognise and celebrate the 2021 award winners.

A-grade best-and-fairest: Georgia Spencer.

President Doug Aiton passed on his compliments on the conduct and behaviour of all who represented the club this year, whether it be on the football fields, netball court, officials, volunteers and members.

Doug said, as far as he was concerned, everyone had been a winner this year.

Hard work recognised: Adrian Daw, Spirit of All Blacks winner Phillip Spencer and president Doug Aiton.

Doug congratulated all netball and football award winners, thanking them for their hard work and determination and their deserved recognition.

Other highlights of the evening include 2021 Clubperson of the Year, Karren O’Connor.

Karren’s nursing experience was tested several times with serious incidents during the season with wonderful outcomes.

Karren is one of those people at a club who is always involved in helping with something.

She is a highly valued member of the team of trainers at the club and is one of three generations of contributors.

All smiles: President Doug Aiton and Best Clubperson recipient Karren O’Connor.

The Spirit of All Blacks 2021 was awarded to Phillip Spencer.

This prestigious trophy is presented to someone who best encompasses the spirit of the club on or off the field for doing anything that evokes the All Blacks essence and endeavour.

Phillip demonstrated this in spades during 2021 and was a deserved recipient.

B-Reserve Netball

Best & Fairest: Sarah Jacka

Runner Up Best & Fairest: Emma Sangster

Most Improved Player: Chloe Dods

Best Team Player: Melanie Reaper

Reserves Football

Best & Fairest: Dean Bradshaw

Runner Up Best & Fairest: Jordan Smith

Best Team Player: Brock Bate

Coaches Award: Mitch Dansey

Most Improved Player: Jordan Wilkinson