Vote for Blues player of the year

Apr 25 2008 by Simon Thomas, South Wales Echo

CARDIFF Blues fans have been handed the chance to vote for their player of the year.

Supporters can choose their personal favourite via an online poll on www.cardiffblues.com

Coach David Young said:“I think it’s great that the fans can decide on the player of the year award.

“There have been some stand-out performances this season, from experienced players who have been at the Blues for a number of years to youngsters who have come through the academy system.”

The winner will be announced at a gala dinner at the Vale of Glamorgan hotel on May 13, when the fifth anniversary of regional rugby will be celebrated.

Awards will also be presented to the most promising player, the players’ player and the academy player of the year, with the following shortlists having been drawn up.

ACADEMY PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Sam Warburton, Sam Hobbs, Leigh Halfpenny, James Down

MOST PROMISING PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Tom James, Jamie Roberts, Dai Flanagan, Dafydd Hewitt

PLAYERS’ PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Maama Molitika, John Yapp, Xavier Rush, Deiniol Jones