Western Force recruits Sam Spink and Martha Mataele have taken out the Nathan Sharpe and Rebecca Clough medals respectively.
Spink (126) finished well clear of fellow Englishman Zack Kibirige (75) and Argentinian Prop Santiago Medrano (74) off the back of a dominant finish to the season.
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The 23-year-old joined the club at the end of last year on a two-year deal, starting at centre in 11 of his 14 games.
"Across the entire year Sam (Spink) proved to us that he had ability, the ball runner made an impact on both sides of the ball in nearly every game he played,” GM of Rugby Matt Hodgson said.
“He’s definitely a well-deserved winner and he represented the club well throughout the season, especially in critical moments for us.
“Sam really stepped up when it counted when you look at the last three games of the year, he really changed the momentum for us.
“Moving to Perth was a significant step in Sam’s career and the way he’s adjusted to the climate here has been impressive. The way he bought into the group and bought into the Western Force culture and identity was truly special to see.”
Junior Wallabies prop Marley Pearce was also rewarded for his strong debut season with the Rising Star award whilst Issak Fines-Leleiwasa won Members' MVP
Mataele meanwhile was a clear winner after a breakout year for the club.
Joining husband Manasa, the flying winger scored four tries in 2023, including powering them to one of their biggest wins in franchise history over the Fijian Drua in round four.
"As soon as Martha came into camp, we knew she would bring another level of professionalism to our side coming from New Zealand,” Hodgson said.
“It was clear to see early in the season that she is a quality footballer not only with the ability to play at a high level well but also having an in-depth knowledge of how the game should be played – she is truly something special.
“Her ability to get over the game line and carry the ball with aggression was key to her success, she had no fear, and we asked a lot of her this year, so it was exciting to see her succeed.
“While her play on the field was world-class, I think Martha really shines off the field mentoring our younger players.For a lot of the rookies this year it was the first time they’d ever been on tour and Martha taught them how to get through that.”
Mataele also took out Members’ MVP as Sera Ravatudei and Trilleen Pomare were joint winners of the Force Woman Award.
2023 Award Winners
Nathan Sharpe Medal: Sam Spink
Rebecca Clough Medal: Martha Mataele
Rising Star: Marley Pearce
Rising Star: Samantha Wood
Super Rugby Pacific Members’ MVP: Issak Fines-Leleiwasa
Super W Members’ MVP: Martha Mataele
Force Man Award: Jeremy Williams
Force Woman Award: Sera Ravatudei and Trilleen Pomare
Adrian Blacker Award: Justin Shakeshaf
