Lions' season best in many years

The 2016 Rugby Union Season has proven to be the most successful for the Woy Woy Lions for many years.

All senior grades made the semi-finals, reserve grade won their first premiership since 2000 and the irrepressible Under 17s defeated Ourimbah for yet another premiership.

The reserve grade side, coached by John Stokie, saved their very best performance for the grand final beating the strong Avoca XV by 20 points to 12.

Strong running centre Blake Arahill played superbly and was judged best on ground but it was a superb display by the forward pack which was the decisive factor.

The club's presentation night was held at Ettalong Diggers and award winners featured a blend of young players who are expected to feature strongly in the next few seasons.

Prior to the Lions' awards, flanker Lapana Vitale had been judged Central Coast Under 20 player of the year.

In his first season in First Grade, his consistent work rate in attack and defence plus his running with the ball was outstanding.

Fellow back-rower Chris Paseka, who has been a tremendous boost to the team since his arrival in 2014, was judged Best and Fairest in First grade as well as Players' Player.

Best back in First Grade was centre Wade Hannell, in his second year in the top side but still only 20.

Reserve grade Number 8, Luke Meaney, another newcomer, earned the Best and Fairest award and also was leading try scorer in the club.

Luke scored both Lions' tries in the grand final.

Best reserve grade back was fullback Ben Skinner. Zac Stride, still eligible for U/19s, made the run onside in First Grade against strong opposition and was judged Rookie of The Year.

First Grade coach's award went to 22 year old fullback Alex Moore, clubman of the year went to First Grade manager Neil Ross and the coveted Col Gooley Award went to the wonderful back-rower, Feleti Atiola, who also coached the Under10s.

Email, 15 Sep 2016

Peter Fenton, Woy Woy Rugby Union