STEVE Campbell made it two in a row at Altona Hockey Club’s presentation night recently, taking out the men’s State League One best and fairest award.
The 20-year-old Altona resident earned 43 votes from the ‘3,2,1’ voting system to fend off Victorian representative Matthew Higgins who finished second with 30 votes.
Campbell is known as a tough, ruthless defender around the club and has played many years of underage representative state hockey.
Coach Darren Duff was extremely pleased with Campbell’s victory.
“Steve’s work ethic is amazing, and despite being only 20, his leadership and maturity is second to none,” he said.
“He is a great example to all of his team-mates, and the juniors at our club, of what can be achieved in sport through commitment and desire.”
Campbell was humble when accepting his award but proud of his achievements.
“To win another Best and Fairest is a great honour, especially when Mathew Higgins has come second.
“He is a fantastic player, and has taught me so much. We finished the season off very well this year, so I hope we can take this form into 2010, and start challenging for finals.”
Williamstown resident, Stephanie Sarantis, was awarded Altona’s women’s state league one best and fairest, just edging out junior Australian goalkeeper, Ashlee Wells, in second place.
Sarantis was pleased with the award, but disappointed with the team’s season.
“It’s a bitter-sweet moment for me,” she said.
“I am honoured to win the award, but to get relegated to state league two was so disappointing. The girls are so determined to come out and win their way straight back into the top competition."
Like Campbell, Sarantis, 21, is a local player who has played for Altona since juniors.
Altona chairman was pleased that two young players who had come up through the ranks were able to take out the top awards.
“We are a local club, with 80 per cent of our members living in Hobsons Bay, for the two awards to be won by products of our junior program is so pleasing.
“The young players coming through the ranks here will see this club feature in State League One for years to come.”
