Chris's big night at Headingley

Oldham Rugby League Club owner, chairman and chief executive Chris Hamilton, one of the longest-serving club chiefs in rugby league, received a special award at the end-of-season Betfred Championship and League One Awards Night, held at Headingley.

He and Batley Bulldogs chief Kevin Nicholas each received a magnum of champagne from RFL chief executive Ralph Rimmer to mark their 25 years in their respective roles in the sport.

"I know a lot of people gathered here tonight, some more than others, and among those I know best are Chris and Kevin," said Rimmer.

Hamilton, a former president of the RFL, launched Oldham RLFC (1997) Ltd, with three local businessmen, in time for the start of the 1998 season.

A quarter of a century on, and despite intense hardships caused mainly because the club has never had its own ground in the borough, he is still at the helm and fighting to keep professional rugby league alive in the town that was once noted for its sporting achievements.

He vividly recalls the first time he and Nicholas attended a meeting of the Rugby League Council.

"It was here at Headingley," he said, "and Kevin and I didn't know a soul.

"Nor did all the people from other clubs know us." said Chris.

"Back then, we were very much the new boys."

Included in the Oldham party at Headingley were two people who will play lead roles at the Roughyeds' very own Presentation Night at the Oldham Event Centre, Boundary Park, on Friday - head coach Stuart Littler and official club photographer Dave Murgatroyd, who will be MC on the big night.

Among the awards to be made will be three separate player-of-the-year awards, chosen by (a) head coach Litter and his assistant, Brendan Sheridan, (b) the fans by online vote and  (c) players voting for one of their own.

Also named will be Unsung Hero and Clubman (or Woman) of the Year.

This is a great opportunity for fans and club personnel - officials, coaches, players etc - to mix and mingle and supper is included, all for £10.

Tickets are available online until midnight tonight (Tuesday) and you can vote for your player of the year online until tomorrow midnight (Wed). 

Entry to the smart Event Centre at Boundary Park is via the large car park off Broadway.

Roughyeds hope as many fans as possible will attend, not only to enjoy a great social evening but to support the club as they close the book on 2022 and look ahead to 2023.

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