Ramblers 2009 Awards

The young players of the Cobh Ramblers first team took center stage at the Clubhouse on Saturday night 19th Dec as the club announced the winners of the Players 2009 Awards. The club provided top quality musical entertainment with Buster Luscombe and a finger-food buffet just before the awards were announced. The players,their families, friends and members enjoyed what can be described as a terrific and thoroughly memorable evening. Awards were picked up by Pierce Donnachie (Young Player Of The Year), Emmet O’Hanlon (Supporters Club Player Of The Year and Club Player Of The Year  – Two Awards) and Anthony Flannagan (Most Improved Player), with Danny Cronin being inducted into the Ramblers’ Hall of Fame.  Mike Bardsley also picked up the ‘Clubman Of The Year’ award.

Speaking with Club Chairman Barry Walsh after the awards, it was evident from his words that the efforts of the team through a difficult 2009 season were tremendously thought of. In his earlier speech he also made it clear how much regard the Club had for these bunch of 17 and 18 year olds who had basically played two seasons in one year with the Youths and the First Team. ”I’m very very proud of these young lads and how they represented the Club throughout the year. Yes, it was a challenging year by all accounts but these lads excelled beyond all means. If they can stay together for another year or so they will certainly have Ramblers back up there challenging for major honours in the coming seasons. Dave Hill’s dedication also needs to be credited.”

Barry Walsh’s comments were echoed by Club Secretary Ernest O’Keeffe ” What a great bunch of lads we have there. It really does warm the heart. What they did this season under the circumstances was brilliant. If I wore a hat I’d take it off to them”.  Much the same was said by current Manager Dave Hill when he spoke to the hall and added ”Stick with me lads. I’ll stick with ye, and we’ll go places”.

Newly inducted into the Hall of Fame for 2009 was Danny Cronin who also had great praise and encouragement for this young team. ”The club has come along way since the days of us getting changed in a make-shift shed in the corner of the ground. Everyone involved here deserves credit where its due. 2009 was tough but we’re still here and fighting. Long may it last.”

Proud parent and Father of award winner Anthony, John Flannagan was overjoyed that his son received an award but even equally-so that his son wears the Ramblers colours. ”I’m delighted for Anthony and the team as a whole. I’m so proud of my Son’s achievements and that he plays in the Claret & Blue”.

Hopes are high that Ramblers will regain a full LOI licence for next season, with decisions due out soon.