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Larne defender Ridley wins NIFWA Player of the Year
TL;DR
Larne defender Matt Ridley has been awarded Player of the Year by the Northern Ireland Football Writers' Association. This recognition comes after his impressive first season in the Irish Premiership, contributing to Larne's success in winning the Gibson Cup.
Key points
- Matt Ridley named Player of the Year by NIFWA
- Ridley played a key role in Larne's defense
- Larne won the Gibson Cup for the third time in four years
- Ridley won the award over Rohan Ferguson and Pat Hoban
- Ridley expressed gratitude for the recognition
Mentioned in this story
Northern Ireland Football Writers' Association
Matt RidleyLarneGibson CupRohan Ferguson
Larne defender Matt Ridley has been named Player of the Year at the annual Northern Ireland Football Writers' Association awards.
Ridley impressed during his first season in the Irish Premiership and played a key role in Larne's defensive solidity which contributed to the side lifting the Gibson Cup for the third time in four years.
The 25-year-old won the award ahead of teammate Rohan Ferguson and Glentoran's Pat Hoban, who were both nominated.
"I am delighted to win Player of the Year, thank you to the Football Writers for picking me, it means so much," Ridley told BBC Sport NI.
"To even be nominated for an award like this is such a privilege so to win it is unbelievable.
"I have loved every minute since walking through the doors in June. I haven't looked back and the fans and boys have welcomed me with open arms."
It was a successful afternoon for the Irish Premiership champions with manager Gary Haveron awarded the Manager of the Season.
Haveron led the Inver Reds to this year's Irish Premiership title after becoming permanent manager earlier in the season.
"I am so thankful to the Football Writers for voting for me," Haveron said.
"It is a long season for them taking notes when they ask for a short word at the end of a match! I am delighted to receive this.
"Great recognition for the club. Rohan [Ferguson] and Sean [Graham], I am incredibly proud of them being in team of the year, richly deserved.
"Matt Ridley has been colossus for us at the back this season. Great for him in his first season at Larne."
Glentoran's Jess Foy received the Women's Player of the Year award after captaining the side to their second league title in three years.
"We had a phenomenal season last year and this is just testament to the team I am part of," Foy said.
"We do not take it lightly that we won the league against tough opposition in Cliftonville, who pushed it right to the wire."
Crusaders striker Fraser Bryden picked up the Young Player of the Year award after netting an impressive 24 goals in the Premiership.
The Scot also scored a crucial goal in the first leg of the side's promotion/relegation play-off against Annagh United when the Crues secured their Premiership status for next season.
Q&A
Who won the NIFWA Player of the Year award in 2023?
Matt Ridley, a defender for Larne, won the NIFWA Player of the Year award in 2023.
What contributions did Matt Ridley make to Larne's success?
Matt Ridley played a key role in Larne's defensive solidity, helping the team lift the Gibson Cup for the third time in four years.
Who were the other nominees for the NIFWA Player of the Year award?
The other nominees for the NIFWA Player of the Year award were Ridley's teammate Rohan Ferguson and Glentoran's Pat Hoban.
What did Matt Ridley say after winning the Player of the Year award?
Matt Ridley expressed his delight at winning the award and thanked the Football Writers for the recognition, stating it means a lot to him.
