Having signed a two-year first team contract just last month, Newcastle Thunder prospect David Weetman topped off his season in style by winning the Academy players’ player of the year award.

Weetman, who is from Cramlington and started his rugby league career with Cramlington Rockets, has enjoyed a successful season captaining an Academy U19s side that made good progress through the year.

His efforts in the three years since joining the Academy earnt him a place in the 2018 first team squad and were clearly appreciated by his peers.

“David’s had a great season” said Rockets Chairman, Jeff Ball “and the player’s player award is always a special one as it means you have the respect of your teammates.

He’s a great example both within the Thunder set up and to any juniors at Cramlington Rockets and I’m sure if he keeps working hard, more success will come his way sooner rather than later.”

The award was part of the Newcastle Thunder end-of-season celebrations, recognising the individual contribution of both the Academy and the seniors.

Amongst the other awards, ex-Rockets first team coach, Evan Simons was named forward of the year and Kingstone Press League 1 Young Player of the Year, Lewis Young was named both back of the year and joint players’ player of the year after the player vote was unable to separate him and Liam McAvoy.

The full list of winners can be found below:

Most improved academy player - Rory Nettleton
Back of the year - Lewis Young
Forward of the year - Evan Simons
Coaches' academy player of the year - Mark McCallan
Coaches' player of the year - Jack Aldous
Young player of the year - Harry Aldous
Academy players' player of the year - David Weetman
Players' player of the year - Liam McAvoy & Lewis Young
Neil Coombs Award - Brianna Haunch