Northern Ireland Football Writers' Association announce end-of-season award nominees
Matt Ridley, Rohan Ferguson and Pat Hoban have been shortlisted for the Northern Ireland Football Writers’ Player of the Year award.
Glentoran striker Hoban has enjoyed a prolific campaign, netting an impressive 31 goals in 38 appearances this season. He is joined on the shortlist by Larne duo Ferguson and Ridley, both of whom have played pivotal roles in their club’s pursuit of a third league title in four years. Goalkeeper Ferguson has recorded 23 clean sheets, while defender Ridley has been a commanding presence at the heart of Larne’s defence.
In the women’s game, Glentoran pair Jess Foy and Nadene Caldwell have been shortlisted for the Sports Direct Women’s Player of the Year award after helping their side win the League title, alongside Cliftonville’s Teegan Lynch.
In the race for Eventsec Manager of the Year, Larne’s Gary Haveron, Glentoran’s Declan Devine, and Coleraine’s Ruaidhri Higgins have all been recognised for their achievements. With just one match remaining, all three managers remain in contention for the league title, with Larne holding a narrow three-point advantage heading into the final day.
Despite a challenging season for Crusaders, rising talents Fraser Bryden and Josh Williamson have earned nominations for the Belleek Young Player of the Year award. They will compete against Glentoran defender MJ Kamson-Kamara, who has also impressed with his performances this term.
Limavady United’s successful promotion campaign has also been recognised. Captain Stephen Lowry and forward John Butcher are both nominated for Championship Player of the Year, alongside Annagh United midfielder Jack Henderson.
The winners will be announced at a gala ceremony at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on Sunday, May 3.
NIFWA Chair Andy Gray said: “With three teams still in contention to win the Sports Direct Premiership, it’s fair to say it has been a fantastic season for Irish League football.
“The Women’s Premiership title race also went down to the wire, while there was plenty of entertainment in the Championship. And while Northern Ireland failed to qualify for the World Cup, there is still plenty to celebrate with so many talented younger footballers coming through in both the men’s and women’s national teams.
“The NIFWA Awards is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate another wonderful year for football in Northern Ireland.
The event will also feature the unveiling of the Football Writers’ Premiership Team of the Year, the Reavey and Co Solicitor International Player of the Year and the NIFWA Merit Award. In addition, two Northern Ireland legends will be inducted into the Juice Jar Dr Malcolm Brodie Hall of Fame.
AWARD NOMINEES:
Sports Direct Player of the Year: Rohan Ferguson (Larne), Patrick Hoban (Glentoran), Matt Ridley (Larne)
Eventsec Manager of the Year: Declan Devine (Glentoran), Gary Haveron (Larne), Ruaidhri Higgins (Coleraine)
Belleek Young Player of the Year: Fraser Bryden (Crusaders), MJ Kamson-Kamara (Glentoran), Josh Williamson (Crusaders)
Championship Player of the Year: John Butcher (Limavady United), Jack Henderson (Annagh United), Stephen Lowry (Limavady United)
Sports Direct Women’s Player of the Year: Nadene Caldwell (Glentoran), Jess Foy (Glentoran), Teegan Lynch (Cliftonville)