It comes as no surprise to anyone who played with or followed the ladies’ team throughout the year that Emily Byrne was named Player of the Year. Emily joined us on an Erasmus exchange from UCC in September, and from her first training session, it was evident that she was going to be a handful for the rest of Andalucía. Not only was she a skilled footballer, but she also possessed natural leadership abilities.
In the initial tournaments, Emily played as a defensive playmaker and caused havoc for opposing defenders with her precise and accurate passes to the forward line. She consistently motivated her teammates and always strived for the best for both them and the team as a whole. As the season progressed, she was appointed the team captain, showcasing her leadership qualities further. Emily left spectators in awe of her point-scoring ability, and her goal-scoring prowess was unmatched.
Furthermore, Emily took charge of training sessions, meticulously planned and developed tactical strategies for upcoming games and tournaments. Her dedication and preparation were evident, and her influence on and off the pitch was felt by each and every player on the team. The overwhelming victory in the Player of the Year vote stands as a testament to Emily’s impact and the profound admiration her teammates hold for her.
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The vote for Men’s Player of the Year was a closely contested affair, with a special mention for both the captain and vice-captain Seán and Cathal coming in joint second. However, there was no begrudging the award being handed to our big man from the Banner. Fergus stood out for his consistent performances throughout the season. It was rare to see him deliver anything less than a 7 out of 10 rating, even during the challenging early tournaments where the team faced tough opponents.
Fergus possessed a remarkable ability to find the back of the net. His powerful runs through the midfield and skilful one-two passes with his teammates were a recurring highlight of his game, often resulting in goals credited to his name. On the pitch, Fergus was a force to be reckoned with, displaying exceptional skills and determination. However, off the pitch, he was one of the kindest individuals you could ever meet.
Fergus took the initiative to guide and support many of the newer players, demonstrating his willingness to lend a helping hand and offer valuable advice. His commitment to the team extended beyond his own success, and his amiable nature made him a beloved figure among his teammates.