The Townsville and District Mendi Blackhawks named Blake Leary as their 2017 Mendi Player of the Year at their end of season awards.
Coach Kristian Woolf said Leary had been one of his most reliable players and was very deserving of this award.
“Blake has been really consistent for us all year,” Woolf said.
“It was very close and could have gone to a number of our players, but Blake really stood out for us.
“We know every week what we are going to get off him, and it’s always 100%.
“He’s a tough competitor, and isn’t afraid to put in the hard work.
“This award tonight has shown Blake that his efforts on and off the field, haven’t gone unnoticed.”
Leary said he was surprised but honoured to win the award.
“I really want to thank the Mendi Blackhawks for bringing me back to Townsville,” he said.
“I have loved every minute of it here.
“Playing alongside these boys has encouraged me to play some of my best footy, I can’t thank them enough.”
The night also paid tribute to retiring players Anthony Mitchell and Michael Parker-Walshe as well as captain Daniel Beasley who is heading to France next month one a one-year contract.
Blake Leary with his 2017 end-of-season club awards. Photo: Alix Sweeney
Townsville Blackhawks 2017 awards
Mendi Player of the Year: Blake Leary
Players Player: Anthony Mitchell
Back of the Year: Jonathon Reuben
Forward of the Year: Blake Leary
Under 18 Player of the Year: Enemarki Shibasaki
Under 20 Player of the Year: Brenn Foster
Other Club Award Winners
Mackay Cutters
Easts Tigers
Souths Logan Magpies
*The QRL will be featuring all the Intrust Super Cup club award winners in coming weeks. Keep an eye on the website www.qrl.com.au for all the news.
