Fraser Preston was invited up on stage & was presented with his '100' shirt, having become the latest player to rack up a century of appearances for the Holy Blues, including 67 consecutive appearances under Russ Wilcox. An impressive run of games for the creative midfielder, who has really flourished under Wilcox. Fraser was joined on stage by fellow Trinity centurions, George Hornshaw, Dylan Cogill and Lewis Butroid - to share the moment.

A big screen review of the season recalled the season's highlights, interspersed with the various end of season trophies and presentations.

The first 'award' from a shortlist of six, was for Young Player of the Year. The six shortlisted players, under the age of 23, having made 35+ appearances, all recorded votes for their contributions throughout the season, but the winner ended up being the modern day centre back, Will Lancaster - for his mature performances at the heart of defence. And maybe THAT goal, to force extra time in THAT game away at Hednesford.

Jed was joined on stage, by his fellow Directors to present the second award of the evening. Box to box midfielder, Jordan Helliwell was unanimously nominated for the Directors' Award. His equalising goal at home to Boston, his nerveless penalty to send us through in the shootout against Hednesford, or the fact he's covered enough miles this season, to run from Gainsborough to the Cornish coast and beyond. It has been one hell of a season for one of the quieter members of the group.

Club Captain, Dylan Cogill took to the stage to present the Player's Player of the Season. And awarded Will Lancaster with perhaps the toughest award to win. The Trophy selected by your peers. A continuation of what would be a prolific Awards campaign for the summer signing.

Manager Russ Wilcox took centre stage. And paid tribute to the role of the Directors, volunteers and supporters in the season we have enjoyed. He thanked his management team, and praised the best signing he made, when singling out Daniel Solts. His Strength and Conditioning Coach, who he declared 'a missing piece in the puzzle, when I came in.' When doubters said 'We'll fizzle out towards the end.. four straight wins said otherwise.'

Explaining the tough decision the Management team had in selecting an individual award. Wilcox reiterated the importance of the whole team. And the quality of the group.

He then proceeded to name the six players he managed to whittle his choice down to. Making great cases for each individual:

Ash Jackson, who he described as an 'Excellent professional, great example to the younger players in the group and a great lad.'
Jordan Helliwell: 'A machine, works so hard for the team and creates moments of quality.'
Will Lancaster: 'A modern day centre back. Great composure on the ball and scores goals.'
Dec Howe: 'Goal machine, who works so hard for the team'
Fraser Preston: 'Has great quality. And played every game.'
Lewis Butroid: 'Local lad. Versatile and scores goals, really contributing at the top end of this season.'

Before settling on the standout performances of Will Lancaster. Excelling in the same position as himself. Quipping, 'A modern day centre back, like myself, 30 years ago. When i was described as cultured.'

The Top Scorer Award needed little introduction, with Declan Howe being presented with his Golden Boot by young Lottie. A regular on the terraces, at the Kal Group Stadium, with her parents. It was a heartwarming moment as Lottie handed over Dec's trophy. Dec somehow managed to continue on his fine scoring form from last season, smashing his tally from last season and coming second only to runaway league winners: Macclesfield's Danny Elliot in the League Golden Boot (and two shy, in all competitions). An array of goals and celebrations, lighting up the Trinity season, as his incredible goals to game ratio will long be remembered in DN21. And hopefully added to, in seasons to come.

The final award of the night; before the players departed for a well deserved night out in Lincoln was the big one. The Supporters' Player of the Season. And with many candidates again in the running - perhaps surprisingly, Will Lancaster once again scooped this one. His consistency and composure on the ball, well and truly winning over the Gainsborough Trinity faithful. The evening drew to a close with local Gainsborough singer XXX taking to the stage, while players, their families, supporters and officials mingled together. Posed for photos and enjoyed each other's company, for one final time in 2024/25.

Catching up with the Award Winners afterwards, Will (Lancaster) said "It’s been a great season for everyone. Playing nearly 60 has been tough, but rewarding with the cup games. I’d like to say thanks to all the players and fans for voting for me & to Russ for bringing me in and trusting me to go out and play every week."

Jordan (Helliwell), selflessly exclaimed, "I just want to say thank you to all the directors for giving me this award. This season has been unbelievable, with many unforgettable moments and achievements as a team."

And hopefully that can be the first of many, for both of the former Barnsley youngsters.

In summing up, here are the Award Winners, in short:

Supporters' Young Player: Will Lancaster
Supporters' Player of the Year: Will Lancaster
Directors' Player: Jordan Helliwell
Manager's Player:Will Lancaster
Players' Player: Will Lancaster
Top Scorer: Declan Howe

Article & images by Rob Hughes (@AATM_Media)