Rangi Chase of Castleford Tigers nabs award and spot in English squad - Rugby League
Rangi Chase of Castleford Tigers won the Man of Steel 2011 on Monday, October 3, by beating out Sam Tomkins of Wigan Warriors and James Roby of St. Helens. The player received the honour on the same day the 25-year-old was called up to the English squad
for the Four Nations Series after he passed the residency criteria.
While speaking about the recent developments in his life, the young New Zealand player stated, “I have resurrected my life in England and feel more at ease here than anywhere else in the world. I have thought long and hard about the opportunity of playing
for England after I became eligible.”
The player’s move to England was a tough decision for the player to reach but it had been welcomed whole-heartedly by the English coach, Steve McNamara. The coach stated, "It's excellent news that Rangi wants to play for England and commit his long-term
future to our international programme. I've met with Rangi and he has shown me that he is totally committed to playing for England.”
Chase became the second player from Tigers to win the same title, which is an honour in itself. In 1999, Adrian Vowles had won in the same category.
Others who clinched the awards last night were Jonny Lomax of St. Helens and Trent Robinson of Catalan Dragons. Lomax took the Young Player of the Year title while Robinson was the declared the Super League Coach of the Year.
Robinson’s award was nonetheless a huge honour for the Dragons who also won in the “Club of the Year” category.
Harry Jepson, the President of Leeds was offered the Mike Gregory award, which is the spirit of Rugby League accolade. Hull KR forward Jason Netherton was declared the Community Champion for his work with the youth of his area.
Also, Sean Long and Rob Purdham, were also given out awards for their long association with Super League.
Tags: