It has been a standout twelve months for Portarlington RFC, who marked the official end to the 2022/23 season with their annual awards night.
The club was named Leinster Junior Club of the year for 2022 and continued to embrace the conditions put in place that saw them achieve that milestone.
Their awards night was held recently in The Forge Venue at Portarlington’s Anville Inn, with six major awards handed out to celebrate the efforts of the club’s volunteers and players during the season.
Warren Murray led the way, with the openside flanker winning First Team Player of the year.
Murray has been front and centre for Portarlington, leading by example in defence and on the ground, dominating line-outs, and scoring more than his fair share of tries.
Elsewhere, Jack McCann won Seconds POTY; Keelan Hennessy won Thirds POTY; and Adam Kelly won Young POTY after a fabulous season playing full-back on wing for the first team.
Mark Petriw – who is not only on the first team coaching staff, but plays as well – was named Club Person of the Year.
The final award was the Peter Tobín Award for Contribution to underage rugby, won by Martin O’Connor.
“I’m honoured and proud to be part of the club and acknowledge the massive work that goes on behind the scenes,” Martin said.
It has been a banner year for Port’s underage system, exemplified by U-7s, who registered over 25 players – the most the mini’s have had on the books for many years.
The numbers at training each week is a testament to Denis Boland and his coaches.
The awards were presented by Director of Rugby, Barry Lambkin, who has spear-headed Portarlington’s renewed focus, resolve, and aspirations.
