Englishman Ben Walker, in action against the Waratahs, took out the Steamers best and fairest award at the weekend.
ENGLISHMAN Ben Walker confirmed his rating as one of the finest half-backs to have played for the Albury-Wodonga Steamers by romping to victory in the club’s best and fairest award.
Walker finished nine votes clear of Southern Inland Rugby Union representative teammate Louie Levett after motoring home in the second-half of the count.
The classy playmaker, who flew out of the country yesterday, said his only disappointment in his time with the Steamers was their heart-breaking grand final loss to Ag College.
“I have had a great time here,” Walker said.
“The club was really welcoming and it’s nice to win the award.
“I was happy with my season especially when I got to know the lines and how everyone played.”
Coach Don Cameron rated Walker as one of the premier half-backs to have played at Murrayfield, which stands him alongside the likes of Kerry Robb, Craig Leseberg and Dave McNaughton.
Walker hasn’t ruled out a return.
“It probably won’t be in the next few years, but maybe after that,” he said.
Walker will leave a gaping hole especially with Justin Wheatley, Dan Hogg, Scott Hannaford, James Kora, Nathan Bright and Jim Lollback signalling their intentions to retire.
Walker took out the Steamers’ best backline player at the club’s presentation night at the Albury Club on Saturday, while Levett was named the top forward.
Skipper Nathan Bright received the coaches award and Jean-Laurent Pozzobon was named the player’s player.
President Justin Clancy received the Daryl “Dasha” Murray Club Person of the Year trophy, while Oscar Ramsden took out the Chris Rumble most improved award.
