The Patrons Association gave out three Young Player of the Year awards during half-time of our last home game of the 2007/08 season against Walsall.

The following players picked up the awards from Trevor Wainwright of the Patrons:

Young professional of the season: Alex Smithies

Currently England Under-18 goalkeeper, Alex has had a great season. He made his professional debut at Southend United on December 5^th following Matt Glennon's sending off before making his first start in the big local derby against Leeds United at Elland Road the following weekend.

Alex has made thirteen appearances for the Reserve team this season, including a very impressive and commanding performance during last night's 3-0 win over Leicester City Reserves at the Galpharm Stadium.

Second-year scholar of the season: Daniel Broadbent

The 2007/08 season just keeps getting better and better for Danny; he picks up this award on the back of his 'League One Apprentice of the Year' accolade at the 2008 Football League awards.

He made his professional debut at Tranmere Rovers' Prenton Park on Friday October 26^th and has since gone on to make a total of 5 appearances for Town - all as a substitute. He had also made 14 appearances for Martyn Booty's Reserve team this season, scoring 4 goals, as well as netting 7 times in his 17 starts for the under-18s.

First-year scholar of the season: Lewis Nightingale

17-year old Lewis made his first start for the Reserve side last night and impressed during the 3-0 victory over Leicester City at the Galpharm Stadium. A central midfielder by trade, he is technically excellent and has been a stalwart for the under-18s this season, playing a total of 27 games in the FA Premier Academy League and FA Youth Cup.

At only 5' 7" Lewis is a diminutive presence on the pitch, but his physical strength is improving every day and much is hoped of the midfielder.

Congratulations to all three players!

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