1 November 2007 By Victoria Rawlings
The 2007 SUANFC Presentation Night was held in style on Friday night at the Grandstand. With over 160 attendees, it was the largest number of people at the club’s presentation night since its inception. All were there to recognise and appreciate the players who have helped the club excel both on and off the field.
22 awards were presented to club members throughout the course of the night, with Best and Fairest awards from the third, fourth and fifth grades going to Blair McFarlane, Brenton Webster and David Owen respectively. The second grade best and fairest player was Simon Nash, with first grade’s James Terry receiving the honours for first grade after a fantastic final season that saw him as the highest vote getter from the AFL (NSW/ACT) from Sydney University.
Coaches awards were given to Alex Campbell (Golds), Ross Hall (Reds), Lachlan McDowell (Blues), Paul McWhirter (Reserves) and Aaron Hawkins (First Grade).
For club awards, players were recognised for their outstanding contribution to the club both on an off field. These players included Andrew Kraefft (Most Improved), Sam Crichton (Best first year player), and Ben Mankarious for being the best player in the finals period. Ben was also named runner up for the best and fairest award for second grade, reflecting his strong performances throughout the season. One of the clubs two outstanding service award were given to playing coach Daniel Archer, after a transformational season for the first grade, which moved up a division and then ended up winning no less than five games. Daniel’s leadership both on and off the field can only be described as inspirational to both the players underneath him and the club in general. Also receiving this award was Chas Wilkinson, SUANFC’s sponsorship director, who has this year put extensive time and effort into creating interest and financial assistance into the club. His positive attitude and his consistent desire to put back into the club highlighted him as a worthy recipient.
The final and most prestigious award was SUANFC’s clubman of the year. The 2007 recipient was Football Operations Director Robert Goodall. President Jason McLennan described his commitment to the club over the year as being equivalent to a second full time job. Through extensive work with all members of the committee and the governing body, Rob has increased the efficiency and prestige of the club by enhancing all aspects of operations.
SUANFC also took time to thank its sponsors Scooteria, Bank of Queensland, Sydney City Toyota, the Forest Lodge Hotel, VFX Printing and Relate System Consultants as well as the ongoing assistance from Sydney University Sport.
Preseason training is due to start on the 14th of November, 2007. All new and existing players interested should view www.suanfc.com for more information.