Abu Dhabi Saracens were the big winners as the great and good of the local game were recognised at the 2014-2015 UAE Rugby Annual Awards.

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More than 300 people were present at The Montgomerie, Dubai on Thursday to see the achievements of people from 16 
updated categories celebrated in the second running of the event.

The 2015 edition of the Rugby Awards – backed by Daman Active Life, HSBC, National Ambulance and Emirates Airline – ensured the work of the players, officials, sponsors and volunteers that have boosted the sport in the UAE were acknowledged.

A trio of globally-renowned names saw the capital outfit sweep the boards, including Australia’s 1999 World Cup winner Joe Roff, 2003 champion Steve Thompson of England and World Rugby CEO Brett Gosper.

More than 22,000 public votes were registered for the 121 nominees, the winners being selected in a process that also 
included the views of an expert judging panel.

West Asia Cup trophy winners Sarries came away with the night’s two premier prizes – Ali Thompson being named Coach of the Season and captain Jaen Botes taking home the much-coveted Player of the Season gong.

“This is the icing on the cake,” Botes said. “All credit to the guys for making this possible.

“This is a confidence booster, but it is thanks to the players who were behind me and the club that has made me their leader. It is one of the highlights of my rugby career.”

South African No8 Botes was a driving force behind his club’s push, putting in a succession of dominant displays as Sarries finished second in the Gulf Top Six. Visa issues then prevented him playing in last month’s epic West Asia Cup showpiece, though his absence from the 26-20 win at Doha did not stop him being selected as leading player.

Player/coach Thompson was unable to attend Thursday’s event to collect his prize in person. The UAE stalwart has enjoyed a stellar first season in charge of Sarries and Botes was quick to pay credit.

He said: “He has built a team from nothing at Saracens. He is a great coach and player, who is someone everyone looks up to.

“Trying to fill Ali’s boots at No8 was a big challenge. I have learned a lot from him and so has the club.”

The night began in a sombre mood when the family of deceased Arabian Knights founder and chairman Neil Palmer came to the stage as the UAE Rugby Federation renamed the Ultimate Recognition Award in his honour.

The 45-year-old passed away at his home in February, sending the local fraternity into shock. Son Maximilian and wife Louise heard about how the Neil Palmer Award will recognise those who have invested time, energy and passion and made a significant contribution to growing the UAE game.

The awards themselves represented the gamut of UAE rugby. From the increasing engagement with Emirati players, to the fantastic efforts from volunteers and the bright talent of youth players.

Versatile Al Ain Amblers and UAE back Hareb Al Azri claimed the Emirati Player of the Season title, an achievement he hoped would spur him on to even greater success with the national team.

He said: “Out of all the Emiratis, I feel it was a tight draw.

“We have many good Emiratis in the seniors. Hopefully, it will be motivation for the future.”