Effinger collects treble at Vipers awards night

Winn's Newcastle Vipers held their End of Season Awards at Hilton Newcastle Gateshead on Wednesday night, and in front of 120 fans, the players were recognised for their efforts this season.

Supporters voted in six categories while coach Stewart named his player of the season before the Players' Player was unveiled.

Netminder Charlie Effinger collected an award treble, with Most Improved, Coach's Player and Players' Player.

Jaroslaw Rzeszutko was named Best Forward and Best Overseas player, although he had been called up to the Polish training camp for the upcoming World Championships.  The likeable Pole was presented with his awards after Saturday's game with Dundee, and he recorded a message for the fans.

After the formal awards both Danny Stewart and Jaimie Longmuir spoke thanking the players, sponsors and fans for helping the club get through to the season's end - a feat which didn't look likely around November last year.

The Vipers GM also indicated that it could be a few weeks before there is any defininte news on developments with regard to next season.

Full list of award winners:

Most Improved Player: Nominees - Charlie Effinger, Dean Holland, Sam Zajac.  Winner - CHARLIE EFFINGER.

Best British Player: Nominees - Dean Holland, Jamie Tinsley, Sam Zajac.  Winner - SAM ZAJAC.

Best Overseas Player: Nominees - Charlie Effinger, Mike Prpich, Jaroslaw Rzeszutko.  Winner: JAROSLAW RZESZUTKO.

Best Defence: Nominees - John Schwarz, Kyle Sibley, Sam Zajac.  Winner - JOHN SCHWARZ.

Best Forward: Nominees - Toms Hartmanis, Mike Prpich, Jaroslaw Rzeszutko.  Winner - JAROSLAW RZESZUTKO.

Most Valuable Player: Nominees - Charlie Effinger, Jaroslaw Rzeszutko, Danny Stewart.  Winner - DANNY STEWART.

Coach's Player of the Year: CHARLIE EFFINGER.

Players' Player of the Year: CHARLIE EFFINGER.