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A memorable Sunshine Coast Scorchers season, which included a breakthrough title for the women’s team, was celebrated in style at Maroochy Surf Club.
About 70 members and supporters of the region’s representative cricket club converged for an uplifting awards night.
There was special praise for the triumphant women’s side, which enjoyed a stunning campaign in just their first season in the Queensland first grade competition.
Scorchers captain Clodagh Ryall and coach Ashley Renouf were acknowledged after winning the first grade title. Picture: Warren Lynam/Scorchers.
Coached by Ash Renouf and captained by Clodagh Ryall, they toppled minor premiers Gold Coast in the decider after finishing home-and-away fixtures in third place on the ladder.
Lucy Hamilton was judged the team’s best and fairest.
At just 14, she was a star in the competition and was a key player in the grand final, scoring an unbeaten 47.
Rising star Lucy Hamilton, right, is presented with the Sunshine Coast Scorchers female player of the year award by Scorchers president Chris Baker. Picture: Warren Lynam/Scorchers.
The Scorchers women’s second grade team also featured in finals, as did the club’s men’s second grade team.
But the Scorchers men’s first grade side did not enjoy the same sort of success, finishing last in the state competition.
Allrounder Blake Maher was named their best player.
Allrounder Blake Maher, right, won the Jeff Thomas Medal for outstanding player of the season, presented by Jeff Thomas.
The awards night also included a special thanks to Ashley Holznagal after five seasons as head coach.
Eddo Brandes has taken the reins for next season.
Scorchers spinner Sam Gardiner, right, makes a presentation to outgoing men’s coach Ashley Holznagel.
It was the first separate presentation night for the Scorchers after they were previously included in the Sunshine Coast Cricket Association awards night.
“That goes to show the growth of the club, particularly in the women’s space,” Scorchers administrator/secretary Gayle Gardiner said.
Coach Ashley Renouf, centre, presents trophies to players Charlotte Briggs, Paige Hatherill and Ruby Orchard.Warren Miller from U-Haul and Scorchers player Mikayla Wrigley. Picture: Warren Lynam/Scorchers.Tamara Wrigley from Carolans First National and Scorchers’ Ben Gear. Picture: Warren Lynam/Scorchers.Angus Lovell and Jeff Thomas. Picture: Warren Lynam/Scorchers.Scorchers bowler Lleyton Chick and Peter Wrigley from Carolans First National. Picture: Warren Lynam/Scorchers.Ashton Muir had the highest batting aggregate in the Lord’s Taverners (under-16) competition. He was congratulated by Ashley Holznagel. Picture: Warren Lynam/Scorchers.Jack Whisker, right, was recognised as most improved player by coach Ashley Holznagel. Picture: Warren Lynam/Scorchers.Charlotte Lutz, right, won the coach’s award from Ashley Renouf. Picture: Warren Lynam/Scorchers.Scorchers player Mitch Cook, right, with coach Ashley Holznagel. Picture: Warren Lynam/Scorchers.