BY ALEX TIGANI
The Singleton Bulls celebrated their club awards with an end of season gathering last month.
Arguably the most notable absence was first grade winger Ethan McLaughlin who was named as the club’s first grade best and fairest.
“I was away at Port Macquarie when I found out about the award,” McLaughlin told The Hunter River Times.
“Someone let me know and it was more like a bit of a shock because I wasn’t expecting it myself.”
McLaughlin, who only turned 18 after the season came to an abrupt end, was not sure whether he would receive an exemption to play at top level.
By the end of his first month in the fold he had already received an NHRU Premier 1 first grade player of the round title.
He proved pivotal in his side’s narrow 31-27 defeat to Nelson Bay in Round 3 and never looked back.
“I wasn’t expecting to win the best and fairest myself especially because the season ended pretty early,” he continued.
“Honestly, it was probably one of the most enjoyable seasons I have had in rugby in years.
“First grade comes off as a really serious level but it really was fun.
“You’re not all there just to go hell and leather and disappear after the game and not see anyone, there was great comradery after each game in the sheds with everyone.”
Tiwani Paringatai and Epeli Ratabacaca were also recognised with the Most Consistent Forward and Back awards while Alex Vaughan added a second grade best and fairest to his long list of achievements.
First Grade
Best and Fairest – Ethan McLaughlin
Most Consistent Forward – Tiwani Paringatai
Most Consistent Back – Epeli Ratabacaca
Most Improved – Onewa Tai
Rucking Mug – Joeli Salusalumasi
Second Grade
Best and Fairest – Alex Vaughan
Most Consistent Forward – Ethan Adler
Most Consistent Back – Aiden Peek
Most Improved – Sorowale Jonacani
Rucking Mug – Benjamin Caskey
Third Grade
Best and Fairest – Peni Delai
Most Consistent Forward – Eddie Weaver
Most Consistent Back – Daniel Bates
Most Improved – Egan Corey
Rucking Mug – Scott Bayley
