Lions coach Dominic Kier said on the day that it was a successful year for the Lions and Lionesses in the new competition.

“There was an outstanding effort from so many players during the year, with all our teams making the semi finals,” Kier said.

“There were also some fantastic individual contributions that have been recognized by the competition organizers.”

Following the grand finals, played in Bathurst on the weekend, several presentations were made to players from Young by the referees, coaches and competition organizers for the season.

Lions captain Simon Major received the referees award for most valuable player following the grand final match.

“Simon really led from the front and it shows how strong a game he had to win best player on the losing side,” Kier said.

Simon also won the referees award for Best and Fairest throughout the competition season.

Ben Noakes came in second on the best and Fairest table as well as being voted best midfielder in the competition.

Mathew McKnight was also voted best goal keeper in the competition.

“All of these players have been invaluable all year and it was fantastic to see them get such great recognition for their skills,” Kier said.

“It is a great reflection on the character of Ben and Simon and their fair and competitive approach to games to have them voted first and second for the best and fairest award.”

It was a good day too for the Lionesses, with Jim Glasheen voted womens’ coach of the year.

“It was a great surprise and fantastic honour to win the award,” Glasheen said.

“It is entirely due to the great bunch of girls we had this year.

“It was a very enjoyable season and both teams made the semi’s which was our goal,” Glasheen added.

Lionesses forward Mel Wilder was also voted best attacker for the season which Glasheen added was a well deserved honour.

“Mel was great in attack all year and it is fantastic to see her efforts recognized,” Glasheen said.