This was an evening for players, girlfriends/wives. sponsors etc, to which an ordinary supporter like me was parachuted. Things like this don't usually happen to me .

We had a lovely three course meal, before the awards were made...

"Emerging Player of the year".... Kemsley Mathias.

"Coaches Player of the Year"... Sam Lousi

"Players  player of the year"..Sam Lousi

"Fans player of the year"... Sam Costello.

Sam was so embarrassed to receive these awards, his whole totally humble persona, is so remarkable, it makes you cringe.

Later I had an opportunity to speak to Sam, and thank him for the level of his performances, week on week. His skills are worth the gate money alone.

He said he is so happy at Scarlets and would like to stay as long as he can, particularly as his family are settled. Let us hope we have the money to keep him.

I would like to think I spoke for the vast majority of ordinary fans like me, when I sought out players like Sione Kalafomi, Leigh Halfpenny, and Aron Shingler, just to thank them from the bottom of my heart for their contribution as Scarlets. Its something I would never normally have the opportunity to do, and it was my humble privilege to have that chance.

It was also great to be able to speak to young players like Kemsley Mathias, Sam Costellow, Morgan Jones,  Joe Roberts and Carwyn Tuipuloto, to offer them encouragement , and to remind them, that we, the fans, will always be there for them, come what may.

My friend Cliff, who  sits by me in the north stand also accompanied me to the dinner.

we have a combined following of the scarlets between us of 130 years, but there are many out there who can match and even beat that, such is the dedication of scarlets fans, many travelling long distances to games , getting home late at night , particularly after a 7.30pm KO.

I spoke to ken Owens briefly before I left, telling he was one of the greatest in his position, I have seen at the club. Ken responded by saying that "You the fans that matter the most, without you we be nothing. Coaches , players, administrators, come and go, but you the fans , the backbone, are always there" Lovely words from Ken, spoken with real sincerity, as a true rock of the Scarlets.

What a lovely post (and a lovely gesture by Steve/Eastern Outpost too).

Diolch am rannu / Thanks for sharing.

Brilliant! Thanks for sharing

   

 Great Post Mark! I have been fortunate to attend two  Previous functions , after invites from Steve (Eastern Outpost ) enjoyed both events hugely. 

    Diolch yn Fawr Steve !

We’ve always known there’d be plenty going on that we couldn’t make and are delighted when the loyal, hard core supporter and regular faithful Fever poster can put our invites to good use.

To share how they enjoyed it is excellent and spreads the fun, which is what life’s about whenever possible.