Baller nominated Player of the Year

An enthusiastic audience of Pontypridd supporters, officials and players packed out the Grandstand Lounge at Sardis Road on Saturday evening 23d May to witness the presentation of the annual club awards.

There were five categories to be awarded – Player of the Year, Players’ Player of the Year, Most Consistent Player of the Year, Most Improved Player of the Year, and the Bob Penberthy Award to the Club Personality of the Year.

The award winners for 2009 were:

• Player of the Year – Kristian Baller
• Players’ Player of the Year – Wayne O’Connor
• Most Consistent Player of the Year – Wayne O’Connor
• Most Improved Player of the Year – Owen Williams
• Club Personality of the Year – Phil Lycett

Kristian Baller was undoubtedly a worthy recipient of the main award, having been a key figure in Ponty’s league and cup campaigns, not only impressing in his usual role of full back or wing, but also standing in to good effect at outside half and scrum half when duty called.

Flanker Wayne O’Connor was rewarded for another outstanding campaign with the allocation of two awards, whilst winger Owen Williams in his first full season with Pontypridd was given recognition for his steady progress throughout the season.

Veteran Supporters’ Club official Phil Lycett was given a huge ovation as he picked up his Bob Penberthy award, his unstinting contribution to the club, organising coach travel, undertaking repair work around the stadium and of course providing the music on match days and at social events, being well appreciated.