The Cassidy Jets held their 2008 Awards Night at the Britannia Hotel on Friday evening with retiring Head Coach Gerry McManus fulfilling his final duty in handing out the trophies. Jeremy Simms landed the coaches player of the year award for his outstanding displays throughout the season whilst fellow wideout Mark Cohen scooped the spoils for the best offensive player.
On the evening Head Coach Gerry McManus took receipt of the freshly engraved Boston Trophy, the inspirational leader bid an emotional farewell to his team and thanked them for their efforts over his five year tenure.
The evening began with the innagural flag awards, Neil Balthazaar secured player of the year with Shadrach McCook collecting the plaque for coaches player. Rookie of the year was split between Rob Coleman and Steve Timmins.
The kitted team awards began with the linemen of the year, Pete Cowler took the offensive plaudits for the second straight time whilst defensive end Kevin Mills capped a tremendous comeback season with the defensive award. Overall, the gong for best defensive player went to inside linebacker Alistair Bailey who enjoyed a superb domestic campaign after his dominant performances in Europe.
Departing running back Steve Coles won't be off to Germany empty handed as he was awarded with the Player's Player honour. Britbowl hero Fraser Houston unsurprisingly won the Rookie of the Year Award after playing just 2 games, both of which were won on the back of his kicking abilities. Club Secretary and Acting General Manager Adam Etheridge was handed the Presidents Award for his off the field contributions.
With 2008 now consigned to the record books the Cassidy Jets begin the difficult task of appointing McManus' successor. The new Head Coach will be charged with mounting the Jets third straight European campaign as well as defending the British crown.