Lincoln City capped a remarkable League One-winning campaign by celebrating success on and off the pitch at the annual End of Season Awards, despite there still being a game to go.
Fresh from lifting the title at Sincil Bank this weekend, the Imps’ players, staff, supporters and partners came together on Sunday evening to mark a season that will go down in history. It’s always a good event for sponsors and the like, where numerous awards are handed out.
At the heart of those accolades was Sonny Bradley, who picked up the Player of the Season award after a commanding campaign in defence. Picked by the senior management at the club, the award honoured a centre-back who has been a cornerstone of City’s success, combining leadership and consistency throughout a title-winning season that saw us boast one of the strongest defensive records in the division.
Conor McGrandles was also honoured, obviously, collecting the Players’ Player of the Season award, a reflection of the regard in which he is held by his team-mates. It’s the one players always want to win, because it is a mark of respect from one professional to another. He also received a shirt marking 150 appearances, as he moved onto 190 at the weekend. Every one of those showed energy, discipline and quality on the ball, from a Lincoln City legend in the making.
Jack Moylan and Reeco Hackett shared the Golden Boot, underlining the spread of attacking threat within the side. That could be really amusing on the final day if one of them scores, but therein lies the pitfalls of having the event a week early.
There was recognition, too, for emerging talent, with Ivan Varfolomeev named Young Player of the Season after an impressive breakthrough year. He was absent from the awards as he wasn’t well, but it’s clear he’s been hugely influential not only among the supporters, but also club staff as well.
Adam Reach’s superb volley against Barnsley was voted Goal of the Season, obviously. It really doesn’t need examining at all. Tendayi Darikwa’s contribution to the community was marked, as it was on the pitch after the game this week, as he got Community Player of the Season, recognising his work beyond matchdays.
There was also a special recognition award presented to the ticket office staff, whose efforts behind the scenes have helped support the club through a historic and demanding season. I have to say, on a personal note, this one was really good to see, as they’ve always been incredible with me. Changing Dad’s ticket over when he passed away could have been difficult, but they made it easy and were just so helpful. Huge congratulations to them.
The evening also shone a light on Lincoln City Women after a hugely challenging season for them, with Bella Bogg named Player of the Season and Chyna McIntosh collecting the Players’ Player award, underlining the continued progress across all areas of the club.
Couldn’t agree more, Gary, with your comments on the office staff. They have always been so helpful when we have got something muddled (a frequent experience!). Especially recently after Chrissie broke her back and needed a wheelchair. Thankfully she is improving now and doesn’t need the w/chair any more. We will be returning to away matches next season, and starting at Port Vale this week! So grateful thanks to Louise, Thea and Ruby (now in another department), from Gerry & Chrissie.