TEARAWAY prop Diamond Charlie was named Player of the Year and Best Forward for Dora Creek Rugby League Club at its annual presentation on Friday night.
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The Newcastle and Hunter Rugby League's A-Grade premiers celebrated their season in style at Dora Creek Workers Club.
A sell-out crowd of more than 180 saw the culmination of a big year for the club.
Charlie's explosive charges with the ball, off-loads, and big motor proved a handful for all opponents in 2019.
Club President Brian Finlay said Charlie was a popular award winner.
"When he accepted his award he then made a tribute to his culture by performing a version of the haka with fellow players Brad Clark and Jev Maone which was given a standing ovation by the crowd," Finlay said.
"It was something truly incredible, and emotional.
"Diamond and Brad have been a huge part of our success over the past three years and this was great to witness."
Young centre Todd Murphy was named Rookie of the Year.
Winger Sam Agalidis was named Back of the Year.
And Brendan Quigg received the Coach's Award from David Hoban.
Hoban said the function was a fitting finale to the season.
"It capped off a wonderful year for the club, winning the A-Grade Newcastle and Hunter premiership with the men's team, and also the A-Grade League Tag girls making the semi-finals for the first time," he said.
"President Brian Finlay and his committee organised a wonderful event to acknowledge all of his committee members and all the valued sponsors of the club (more than 35 in attendance)."
Hoban and his assistant coach Harley Farrugia presented the men's team with their grand final-winning jumpers, and a jacket.
Finlay's service to the club over more than 40 years was acknowledged when he was presented with a large framed jersey by life member Neville Heaton.
Mandy Partland received the Clubperson of the Year Award.
Hoban confirmed that he would be at the helm of the Swampies again next season.
"We are now in planning and preparation for the 2020 season and aim to go back to back," he said.
"After talking to all the boys at the presentation night most are ready to play again and defend the title."
Dora Creek downed Belmont Souths 44-4 in the grand final, after leading just 8-4 at the break.
Coach's new gig
FORMER Macquarie Scorpions premiership-winning coach Adam Bettridge has landed a job in the Newcastle Knights junior system after stepping down as Scorpions coach at the end of last season.
Bettridge, who master-minded Macquarie's 24-6 upset win over hot favourites Western Suburbs in the 2017 Newcastle league decider after taking the side to consecutive grand finals in 2015 and 2016, has been appointed assistant coach of the Knights Jersey Flegg Under 20s side for next season under new head coach Tony Gleeson. - Barry Toohey