Mitchell Smith was the big winner on the evening as he scooped the Players’ player of year award after producing countless outstanding performances for the black-and-yellows last season, whilst topping the appearance charts with 16 and scoring 9 tries in the process. The back-row forward will be hoping for another impressive season as the Vikings make their debut in the Zoo leagues, although Smith could well join his brother Jacob in the wider Raiders training squad and if can impress Jordan Reynolds he may well find himself running out at Footes Lane in and green and white shirt.

The coaches player of the year award went to versatile back Leon Collenette who had undoubtedly his best season for the Vikings to date, and although only aged 20 he has been showing the maturity of a seasoned senior player this season and he is only going to get better from playing consistently stronger opposition next season.

Cam Le Prevost picked up the Most Improved Player trophy after he had a tremendous season which culminated in playing for the Raiders on several occasions in the latter part of the season. The winger was playing his first full season of senior rugby after graduating the Academy Colts last term, and he quickly stood out as a young man with huge potential. Over the season his performances and skill level increased with nearly every game he played and he is now one of Ray Smarts first names on the team sheet, that said only if he’s not going to be on Jordan Reynolds team sheet.

The Vikings have many young and exceptionally talented players amongst their ranks, so in choosing a Young Player of the year would have been no easy task. Centre Phil Le Noury was the chosen winner after he stood out significantly enough above his young peers in just the 5 games he played, with work commitments often getting in the way of his availability last season. There will be no such issues next season for the 18 year old and he is expected to play a key role in the Vikings side.

James Regnard was the top try scorer with 12 tries whilst Matt Lomas topped the points scored after a very successful season with the boot.

Head coach Ray Smart won the President's Trophy, awarded by current President Andy le Maitre for guiding the club to the Sussex Division Two title and for the huge amount of work he does off the pitch to keep the club performing and moving forwards. This is a hugely deserved award for Ray who is one of beating hearts of our small club.

More news on the Vikings maiden season in the Zoo Leagues will be available soon, as Ray Smart’s side will be hoping to continue their rapid development in a much stronger league competition.

Thanks for your support this past year, and we look forward to seeing you in September when we get back to competitive action!