This evening ( June 1) Aylsham Athletic Under 9s had their end of season presentation party at Gravity in Norwich. 

Manager Liam Smith said: “It has been a fantastic season which has seen a vast improvement in the way the players have performed on the pitch. Despite the players knowing it’s their performance rather than results that matter at this stage, there have still been some impressive results along the way and I am proud of all the boys.”

The individual awards this season went to:

Best attitude and willingness to learn: Kamsi Ukpanwanne. Not only is Kamsi a great little player on the pitch his attitude is first class and he is always taking on board the advice he receives from the coaches. Special mention also to Tom Huttley 

Most improved player: Harry Carver. This was a keenly contested category with Leland also deserving of a mention but for a steady improvement over the whole season primarily as a defender and occasionally goalkeeper, Harry took the award.

Manager’s player of the season: Bailey Rushmer. Despite his small frame Bailey has been outstanding this season and has put in some fantastic defensive performances against some good teams. As well as being a great defender he even scored a hat-trick in one game this season!

Players’ player of the season: George Todd. George’s performances particularly in the second half of the season have impressed due to his ability to win the ball and his eye for a pass. His leadership on the pitch is also good to see and his teammates look for this at times. 

Although it was individual awards that were handed out, it must be stressed that it is all about the way the team play as a collective that makes being part of this team so pleasing. Special mentions to Kobi Vasco who will be a big player for the team next season and of course not forgetting Rohan Panday for his saves and obviously Dom Whiting-Smith for his many goals!

Liam Smith will be standing down as manager for next season although he will still be involved with the coaching. Big thanks went to him from all of the parents and players as he has been with them since they started as under 6 players.

Thanks also go to Nick Huttley for refereeing the home games and to the parents who volunteered in the kitchen and help with the pitch.

If you know a player who will be school year 5 in September and would like to play for the team please get in touch by calling 07853 040913.