The 2024 Don Saunders Medal Awards night was a celebration of excellence for the Western Clydesdales, with the spotlight on the stars of the Hostplus Cup and BMD Premiership teams. These players were recognised for their outstanding contributions and pivotal roles throughout the season.

Taniela Otukolo emerged as a standout, taking home both the prestigious Don Saunders Medal for Player of the Year and the Player’s Player award for the Hostplus Cup squad. Otukolo’s relentless performance on the field, paired with the admiration of his teammates, showcased his integral role in the team’s success this season.

In the BMD Premiership division, Tara Reinke was named the Player of the Year, acknowledging her consistency, leadership, and dedication on the field. Reinke’s performances were further recognised as she claimed the Best Forward award, solidifying her place as a dominant force for the Clydesdales.

The Best Back award for the Hostplus Cup went to Kaden Buhse, whose agility and strategic play were essential to the team’s attacking efforts. Kayla Jackson topped off a memorable debut season in rugby league with the BMD Premiership Best Back award.

Cory Fenning shone as the club’s top finisher, securing both the Tony Duggan Highest Try Scorer (12 tries) and Nick Parfitt Highest Points Scorer (132 points) titles for the season.

Other notable recipients included Luke Rouland, who earned the Coaches Award for his unwavering commitment and resilience in the Hostplus Cup, and Zoe Cook, who was recognised with the same honour in the BMD Premiership for her dedication to the club and community.

The Best Forward award for the Hostplus Cup went to Lopeti Mafi, whose ability to break the line and carry for large metres each game was pivotal to the team’s attack.

Special recognition was also given to Mark Green, named Paul Reedy Volunteer of the Year, and Rex Zeeman, honoured as Darren Ingram Club Person of the Year for his invaluable contributions to the football program.

The night not only celebrated individual brilliance but also highlighted the strength and unity of the Clydesdales. As the 2024 season closes, the club is poised for even greater achievements, driven by the passion and talent of these award-winning players.

The Chronicle news article

The full list of Award winners:

Hostplus Cup

Don Saunders Medal – Taniela Otukolo

Coach’s Award – Luke Rouland

Player’s Player – Taniela Otukolo

Best Forward – Lopeti Mafi

Best Back – Kaden Buhse

Tony Duggan Highest Try Scorer – Corey Fenning

Nick Parfitt Highest Point Scorer – Corey Fenning

BMD Premiership

Player of the Year – Tara Reinke

Coach’s Award – Zoe Cook

Player’s Player – Leianne Tufuga

Best Forward – Tara Reinke

Best Back – Kalya Jackson

Mal Meninga Cup

Player of the Year – Lyucian King-Togia

Coach’s Award – Matthew Schultz

Player’s Player – Trace Beattie

Harvey Norman 19s

Player of the Year – Mackenzie Zeller

Coach’s Award – Chloe Pallisier

Player’s Player – Libby Dunn

Cyril Connell Cup

Player of the Year – Braithen Scott

Coach’s Award – Brodie Hilt

Player’s Player – Shaun Elara

Harvey Norman 17s

Player of the Year – Pypah Ferguson

Coach’s Award – Sienna Carr

Player’s Player – Tayla Horrobin

Club Awards

Paul Reedy Volunteer of the Year – Mark Green

Darren Ingram Club Person of the Year – Rex Zeeman