The Hunslet RLFC players were not the only winners at Friday’s Awards Night. Lifelong supporter Audrey Groves, who celebrated her 90th birthday yesterday (9 September 2024), was presented with the prestigious Geoff Gunney Award as well as being made a Vice President of the Club.
Audrey started going to watch Hunslet as a 4 year old with her Dad in 1938, she was obviously a lucky charm as they went on to beat Leeds 8-2 in the All Leeds Championship Final at Elland Road.
As a teenager, Audrey decided to watch the Hunslet Supporters team with a friend from school. This was where she met her husband, the late John Groves, who went on to coach the Hunslet Juniors. Audrey then started volunteering at the Club and became a regular at matches with their two young children.
Audrey has never lost her love of rugby and all things Hunslet. As well as the club, Audrey has also supported Hunslet Junction, Hunslet Old Boys, Hunslet Warriors and now the newly formed Hunslet Amateur Rugby League Club.
Chairman Kenny Sykes commente:
“Audrey, and her whole family, have given tremendous service and support to rugby league in Hunslet for decades.
“She richly deserves all the plaudits that come her way. She still does a great job in hospitality serving teas and coffees on a match day and shows no sign of slowing down.
“We are delighted to recognise her in this way.”
Audrey said:
“I never thought one day I would be a Vice President of Hunslet and am overwhelmed to receive these honours.”
After this important presentation it was the turn of the players. The three awards were presented in front of supporters and players and were
Coach’s Player of the Season – Cam Berry
Players’ player of the season – Jack Render
Supporters’ Player of the Season – Matty Beharrell
Hunslet play their first promotion play-off game on Sunday (15 September) away at Rochdale Hornets.
This post is based on a press release issued by Hunslet RLFC
Main photo: Audrey is presented the ‘Geoff Gunney Award’ assisted by her son Richard and Hunslet star Jimmy Watson
All photos: Craig Irvine
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