Joel Pearson and Sandy Maskell-Knight chair Phil Bird off Clarke Oval. After two failed attempts at holding an end of season presentation night, the Cootamundra Blues finally held the event on Saturday night, November 13. The seated dinner function was held at the Cootamundra Country Club, with the Blues finally able to put a full stop on the season.
Phil Bird took out the club’s Best and Fairest award for the third time, notching his name on the honour boards once again. Phil also received the Nieuwendyk Award. Blake Basham came runner-up in the Best and Fairest following a wonderful season. The co-captain was rewarded for an outstanding season for the Blues, with his efforts being duly recognised. Mark Loiterton received the honour of being awarded the Club Person of the Year.
Mark was acknowledged by his teammates and coaches for always putting in the extra effort and helping others and the club at every opportunity he can. Cootamundra Blues Secretary Lee Loiterton was presented with a life membership in a surprise presentation at the end of the night. Lee has been identified as someone who goes above and beyond for the club, and she was warmly met with a standing ovation upon accepting the award.
Joe Scott was awarded with the leading goal kicker award, while Lachlan Webb received the Coaches Award. Joel Pearson and Bailey Synfield won multiple awards, with Joel taking home the Most Consistent and Junior Club Person of the Year awards, while Bailey took home the Most Improved and Captains Award. Other award winners included; Harvey Holt with Rookie of the Year, Sam Gash with Junior with Most Potential, Jacob Tiernan with Players Player and Will Holt with the President’s Award.
The top ten in the Best and Fairest are as follows: 1. Phil Bird 102 votes 2. Blake Basham 77 3. Joe Scott 54 4. Joel Pearson 45 5. Jacob Tiernan 42 6. Lachlan Webb 32 7. Brad McNamara 28 8. Sam Gash 20 9. Ben Rose 19 10. Andrew Merritt 13 The Cootamundra Blues will be hosting a Christmas Party in December for players and supporters. Congratulations to all award winners and to the Cootamundra Blues for getting though a challenging 2021 season. Tim Warren