Pictures: Northallerton Rugby Club May ball and awards

A highly successful event on Saturday, May 14 was attended by more than 100 people who enjoyed a three course meal, the awards ceremony and then a disco until the early hours.

The men's first and second teams both had a modest year with highs and lows due to numerous injuries to regulars, but were fortunate to also welcome two or three new players.

The ladies team, which had fewer games than the men but a much better win ratio, deservedly took most of the plaudits and awards on the night.

The first presentation of the night went to Craig Nasby for his sterling work as the volunteer bar steward for the last three years, which were significant in keeping the club going through the pandemic.

The men's first team awards started with the player of the year, which went to Dom Dalby. Matthew Marsay received young player of the year for the third time.

Matty Clarke junior was awarded most improved player of the year after earning and retaining his regular spot in the first team.

The second team player of the year was awarded to elder statesman Dave Baker, while the most improved player of the year was Jimmy Ashworth-Fothergill.

The highlight of the night was a heartfelt, rousing speech from the ladies team captain Natalie Gardiner, who praised all the players who stuck with their training regime and got stronger as the season progressed. The ladies started off the season with only ten players and ended up with more than 25 training on a Wednesday night.

The ladies' awards went to Ali O’Brien for the player of the year, Vicky Philips for most improved player, and coach’s player of the year was Emily McCormack.

Two more club awards also went to the ladies' team, with Abby Robinson receiving the Peter Blyth trophy for the hardest working player of the club, and Ali O’Brien was deservedly voted the overall club player of the year.

There was also a thank you to the behind the scenes helpers including the volunteer kitchen staff.