3rd XI skipper Joss Awdry was crowned the 2023 Bert Worthy Young Player of the Year at the OHAFC dinner at Queen’s Club on Friday night.

Joss was rewarded for his excellent displays on the field and his superb captaincy of the 3s since taking over, culminating in leading the side to their first final in the history of the club, ultimately coming up just short in a 1-0 defeat to the Old Berkhamstedians on Finals Day at the end of April.

Joss first played for the club in the 2018/19 season having played football for his College at Durham University. He made only three appearances that season but would return on a permanent basis in 2021, playing in nine of the 3s’ fourteen League games. The following season Joss made both his 1st and 2nd XI debuts and ended the season with 21 appearances to his name in all competitions, only bettered by Tom Mitchell and Will Payne.

Prior to the start of the 2023/4 season, Joss was appointed 3s captain and would lead by example, finishing the current campaign with more appearances to his name (22) than any other player. He scored a superb free-kick in the DWT semi-final win over the Old Brentwoods 3s in Essex and ended the season with three goals to his name. Joss, along with several other senior 3s players, has engendered a strong spirit among the sqaud, with the aim to forge further ahead next season with greater consistency in the team’s League displays.

Joss becomes the first OHAFC 3rd XI player to win the award – presented in honour of legendary OH sportsman Robert Worthy – since Harry Turner, another 3s skipper, in 2015. He follows in a long line of talented players to be recognised including Ed Martins, Fred Richardson, Gbeminiyi Soyinka and James Breeden.

Many congratulations to Joss.