The Hereford Stampede’s unforgettable 2025 campaign was capped off in style with a fantastic end-of-season awards evening at the Green Dragon Hotel in Hereford.
After a year that saw the Stampede finish the regular season with a 6–2 record, secure a playoff place, and win both playoff games to earn promotion from BAFA Division 2 to Division 1, the evening provided the perfect opportunity to reflect, celebrate, and say thank you to everyone who made the season possible.
The awards night was about far more than trophies and statistics. It was a chance to recognise the collective effort behind a hugely successful year — not only the players and coaches, but also the partners, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters whose backing continues to drive the club forward.
Held in the heart of Hereford, the Green Dragon Hotel proved an ideal setting for the occasion. With great food, excellent drinks, and plenty of laughter throughout the evening, the room was filled with stories from the season, shared memories from game days, and well-earned celebrations of hard work paying off.
Head Coach Leigh Jones spoke passionately on the night about what the year meant to him and the squad:
“This has been an incredibly special season. The effort, commitment, and togetherness this squad has shown from day one has been outstanding. I couldn’t be prouder of the players and the coaching staff — they’ve earned this promotion the hard way, and they fully deserve it. Just as importantly, none of this happens without our volunteers, sponsors, and partners who support us every step of the way.”
The awards presentation itself highlighted individual excellence, improvement, leadership, and commitment — all of which played a role in turning a talented group into a promoted team. Each award represented countless hours of training, preparation, and dedication, and was met with deserved applause from teammates and guests alike.
2025 End of Season Award Winners
- Coaches Player of the Year: J.J. Spencer
- Player’s Player of the Year: Blaine Smith
- Rookie of the Year: Olly Shilling
- Clubman of the Year: Joel Grisman
- Sicknote of the Year: Ethan Knott
- Most Improved Player of the Year: Conor Yates
- Most Flagged Player of the Year: Chris Cowley
- Newcomer of the Year: Luke Quadling
- Coach of the Year: Leigh Jones
- King of the Trenches 2025: Russ Field
- Special Teams MVP: J.J. Spencer
- Offensive MVP: Blaine Smith
- Defensive MVP: Dan Harris
As the evening drew to a close, one thing was clear — the success of the 2025 Hereford Stampede was built on community, commitment, and shared belief. The awards night was a fitting celebration of a season that will live long in the club’s history, and a reminder that promotion to Division 1 is the result of everyone pulling together on and off the field.
Here’s to a remarkable year, unforgettable memories, and an exciting future ahead for the Hereford Stampede.
Full photo album can be found HERE.
