Award Winners at Club Dinner

Special Recognition The Club is always keen to acknowledge those who have made an outstanding contribution as players by commemorating their 25th anniversary as a playing member. Reaching the milestone this year was Alex Adams, one of the Clubs greatest servants as a player and one of the finest batsmen we have seen with 4662 runs as a First XI player and approximately 3000 for the Second XI. Additionally, he has taken 189 wickets in his career and has served several terms as Captain of both First and Second XI's. Sadly, as we all know, Alex has been ill of late and was, unfortunately, not at the dinner to receive his recognition but a commemoration of his achievement was collected by his daughter Julie.
Club Cricketer of the Year Club Captain, Ryan Eagleson, enjoyed a fantastic season and proved to be a genuine match winner with both bat and ball. After a frustrating time with injury, Ryan roared back to form and played in every league match of the campaign, captaining the First XI to runner-up spot in the league. Leading from the front, he scored 442 runs at an average of 73.67, including four half-centuries, with a highest score of 85 not out. His 33 wickets cost a mere 10.45 runs apiece and he took a wicket in every game.
In Ryan's absence, his award was collected by his Mum, Eleanor, pictured receiving the award from Town Mayor, Alderman Eric Ferguson.
First XI Bowler of the Year After a yet another outstanding season, Michael McIlroy, won this award for a remarkable ninth occasion. He has now taken over 400 wickets for the First XI and has been a model of consistency over the years. In 2002, he took 24 wickets at an average of 14.67 runs and conceded fewer than 3 runs an over, with best figures of 5 for 27 against Laurelvale.
First XI Batsman of the Year Another player deservedly retaining thir trophy was Barry Cooper. In the course of the season, he managed to pass the 4000 run mark for the First XI and now has the Club record of Nigel McFarland firmly in his sights. Despite the weather, he still managed to score 713 runs in 2002 with a remarkable average of 71.30. This total included a brilliant 148 not out against Saintfield in the First Round of the Senior Cup. This achievement saw him honoured at the N.C.U. dinner, where he received the award for the highest individual score in the Senior Cup this season. Coops also notched up four league fifties including what was almost a match-winning 83 in the vital league match against Bangor.
Barry Cooper and Michael McIlroy pictured with Mayor Ferguson and President, Leslie Thompson. Also pictured is Desy Allen, who won the prize for being 'Most Likely To Become The New Botham' for a record fifth year.
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