SYDNEY – Thursday, 2 September 2010
Jarryd Hayne wins Ken Thornett Medal for 2nd consecutive year
Last night Parramatta Eels fullback Jarryd Hayne was awarded the prestigious Ken Thornett Medal for the second year in a row at the club’s 2010 Presentation Night.
Parramatta Eels captain Nathan Cayless was also honoured at the presentation night with a touching tribute from Eric Grothe Sr and Eric Grothe Jr performing My Hero by Foo Fighters and was presented with a special one-off ring for his service to the club.
The Eels’ young stars were also featured, with Justin Horo taking out the Eric Grothe Rookie of the Year award, while Tim Mannah was awarded the Jack Gibson NRL Coaches Award.
Past players Steve Ella, Brett Kenny, Ken Thornett and Geoff Gerard attended the event and presented awards to the club’s newest crop of rising stars.
Hayne, who also won the Ken Thornett Medal for his standout season in 2009, said the award was a good way to finish a sometimes disappointing season.
“It hasn’t been the best year but I’m always proud to receive an honour like this from a club legend like Ken Thornett,” he said. “All the boys have put in a huge effort this year and we’re really looking forward to what we can achieve in 2011.”
Club medico Dr Steve McNamara was rewarded for his years of time and tireless efforts by being presented with the Mick Cronin Clubman of the Year award, while the club’s rising stars Pat O’Hanlon and Rory Brien were winners in the Toyota Cup awards.
2010 debutant Anthony Mitchell was voted Players’ Player for the Eels’ NSW Cup team Wentworthville, while Mitchell Allgood was handed the Coaches Award for his attitude throughout the season.
The winners of Australia’s Got Talent and mad Parramatta fans, Justice Crew, performed twice on the night, with the highlight a “dance-off” between members of Justice Crew and the Eels players.
AWARD WINNERS
Ken Thornett Player of the Year Medal: Jarryd Hayne
Eric Grothe Rookie of the Year award: Justin Horo
Jack Gibson NRL Coaches Award: Tim Mannah
Mick Cronin Clubman of the Year Award: Dr Steve McNamara
Steve Ella NYC Players’ Player Award: Rory Brien
Brett Kenny NYC coaches Award: Pat O’Hanlon
Bob O’Reilly NSW cup Players’ Player Award: Anthony Mitchell
Geoff Gerard NSW Cup Coaches Award: Mitchell Allgood
SOURCE: EELS MEDIA RELEASE
