By Albatross
April 16 2003

The fans have spoken: and it's not exactly a great shock that they have decided as they have for the main award tonight. Hartlepool United's Player of the Year for 2002/3 is the one and only Ritchie Humphreys. Ritchie has had a great season, especially when playing on the left, and it's no surprise that he's picked up the award. He's played like a man possessed at times, and you have to wonder how much he's been driven by the penalty miss against Cheltenham last season that saw us go out of the playoffs in the cruelest possible way. While no-one blamed him - after all, he'd played a big part in our success - you definately get the feeling that he's been a man on a mission.

His commitment, skill, and the occasional touch such as his wave to the fans after beating a player earlier this season, have seen him become one of the most popular players at the club. He's also found his shooting boots, with eleven goals this season - a more than respectable total for a midfielder. This particular piece of recognition is "Ritch-ly" deserved; and he has to be one of the leading contenders for a place in the PFA Divisional Team.

Chris Westwood was widely touted as Humphrey's main competitor for the title - and he's been rewarded with the Away Player of the Year award. While he has made the odd error, Westie has been generally impressive and has had a big part to play in what is - even despite the recent form - the best season in the club's history. He rarely dives in, but makes some important challenges and not many forwards have managed to get the better of him this season.

Of course, both award winners have recently put pen to paper on new contracts, and this more than anything shows the ambition that's around the club these days.

Other awards went to Mickey Barron (Jolly Boys), second-year Scholar Matty Robson (Youth Player of the Year), and Martin Scott: the youth coach received the Monkey Business award following another season to remember for Pools youngsters, who claimed their divisional title and saw Robson and Steven Istead on the fringes of the first team.

There wasn't too good news for some of the young players though: Hartlepool United u15s drew their final group game in the Dallas Cup 1-1 with Chicago Fire, and despite being unbeaten lost out to Chicago on goal difference.