Celebration time: Awards 2024 recap

MK Softball League celebrated another fantastic season at Newport Pagnell Football Club at the annual end-of-season-awards evening.

Before the awards kicked off, we enjoyed fantastic pizza from Santina's Wood Fired Pizza Co before taking our seats for the main event. Leah gave her customary review of the season, highlighting the many volunteers who have made the season a success - from keeping the diamond in tip-top condition to running another successful NSL season.

Then it was time for the awards. After a series of fun awards, the hotly contested rookie of the year prize was between Hayley Redgate, Grant Redgate, Ollie Carson, Saskia Watts and Abbey Sycamore. The winner was Hayley, although the masked recipient on her behalf looked suspiciously taller and more muscular.

Next up was most improved player which was fought out between Brandon Watts, Gavin Barringer, Kim Harrison, Sarah Ridley and Vru Sharma. Gav deservedly picked up the award.

The tournament player of the year shortlist was Sarah Ridley, Trev Morley, Jake Clarke, Steph Harvison and Kim Harrison - with Steph winning the trophy.

The booming biceps of Sean McGinn won the home run king while Heather Ayres, Kim Harrison and Hayley Redgate shared the queen crown.

Then it was time for the MVPs. Big ball was between Brandon Watts, Jonathan Mandel, Steve Lamb, Trevor Morley and Trevor Sykes, with Steve taking the honours. Small ball was battled out by Billie Lands (winner), Kim Harrison, Heather Ayres, Laura Thompson and Rachel Hunter.

Play of the year saw a shortlist of Billie Lands (for her two big walk off home runs), Nathan Hulford (winner), Hayley Redgate, Steve Lamb, and Trevor Sykes.

We once again remembered the late Jules Peck whose name is now given to the club member of the year award. Marcie Gray, Leah Holmes, Matt Barber, Mr Debs would all have been worthy winners, but Gavin Barringer picked up the trophy along with the best dressed prize for his incredible purple Rhino attire.

Finally, the Towcester Tigers celebrated their first league championship, receiving a much-deserved trophy.

After the awards, we partied for the rest of the evening, helped by our fantastic band as we looked forward a new indoor season. Thanks to everyone who helped with the organisation of another great evening.

Huge thanks to Martin Robinson for the photos below!