Carl, pictured with girlfriend Joanne, beat off stiff opposition from players from the other nine clubs in Hartlepool and District - including Horden and Hartlepool Ladies.
The major factors were the fact that Carl broke into the team at the beginning of the season, just as he turned 19 and kept his position in the second row, of all places, right throughout the campaign.
Other top awards on the night, which was organised by the Mayor Stuart Drummond, went to our very own Chris Wray for his reffing; the indefatigable Billy Lithgo for all his hard work at Seaton; to Andrew Temple for his leadership and playing skill at Horden; County Sec Chris McLoughlin for his lifetime achivement, both on and off the pitch; and to Brian Robinson as Coach of the Year for his achievement in getting Rovers promoted. Not surprisingly Rovers were Team of the Year and their skipper Mark Power was awarded his County Cap on the night.
Former Westies Mr David Stubbs Esq. and scrum half Phil Harvey were respective guest speaker and MC. Great idea and a good night, but let's hope next year it isn't held on the last night of the Ryder Cup! Thanks to young players Martin Todd and Chris Young for representing the club alongside President Reg Turner and Tim Sawyer and his good lady.