The 2019 Winners of the The RPA Players’ Awards are:
Male Player of the Year
Winner: Danny Cipriani – Gloucester Rugby
“It’s very humbling to be named the winner of such a prestigious and special award. Rugby is the ultimate team sport and every day we work exceptionally hard together as a club to improve every aspect of our performance. I would like to thank my fellow professionals for the wonderful recognition and to everyone who has continued to support me along this journey.”
The Sanlam Young Male Player of the Year
Winner: Ollie Thorley – Gloucester Rugby
“It’s a huge honour to be voted the Sanlam Young Player of the Year by the players you play against every week. All of the guys nominated would have been deserved winners, so I am very humbled. Most significantly though, I’m proud of what Gloucester have achieved so far this season and I can’t wait for the upcoming play-offs.”
The O2 England Women’s Player of the Year
Winner: Sarah Bern
“It’s an amazing feeling to be recognised in this way by my England teammates. Having been injured and having worked so hard to get back to this point, I am overwhelmed and thankful to everyone who has been there and supported me throughout my career. It’s an honour to be a member of this England team, and especially at the age of 21, I am shocked to have such incredible recognition.”
England Men’s Player of the Year in association with Barclays
Winner: Jonny May
“I am extremely honoured to be named the England Men’s Player of the Year. I am not normally motivated by personal awards but to have the support of my England teammates is a privilege and inspiration. I love playing with these guys, it’s been an enjoyable season with England and I can’t wait to pull on the white shirt again.”
England Women’s 7s Player of the Year in association with Emirates Holidays
Winner: Alex Matthews
“It’s an incredible honour to be named the winner of this award for the second season in a row. I cherish the support of my teammates and without them I wouldn’t be in the position I am today. I must thank the girls and the whole England 7s team for this humbling recognition.”
England Men’s 7s Player of the Year in association with Emirates Holidays
Winner: Will Muir
“I feel so honoured to have even been nominated for this award, let alone win it. The people around me in this team are incredible and have taught me so much on and off the pitch. I look forward to continue learning on this amazing journey and finishing our season on a high.”
RPA Gain Line Award
Winner: Jamie Gibson – Northampton Saints
“I was thrilled to have won the first award, but I’m blown away to have been selected as the overall winner for 2019. Any recognition is hugely appreciated, but when I look around and see so many other players getting stuck in with their own talents and interests off the pitch, it’s a huge compliment to have been chosen as the winner. I am a very lucky man to have the opportunity to work every day alongside the woman I love on businesses we’re both extremely passionate about.”
RPA Special Merit Award in association with PKF Francis Clark
Winner: Mathew Tait
“I am truly humbled and privileged to receive this award and would like to thank the RPA Players’ Board for this incredible honour. I have been extremely lucky to have enjoyed a career at three great clubs, represented my country, and made so many amazing memories which I can take with me into my retirement and my next chapter.”
RPA Blyth Spirit Award in association with Towergate Insurance
Winner: Rob Horne
“I am humbled and appreciative to receive the Blyth Spirit Award. I want to thank the rugby community as a whole for their unwavering support during a life-changing event. The thing about life-changing injuries is that they change lives, for everyone involved. My brachial plexus injury has challenged me but also enlightened me through exposure to new experiences, inspiring people and different perspectives. I don’t believe that things happen for a reason, I believe that things happen, then it’s up to you as to what happens next.”
Courtesy of the RPA
