The Rugby Players’ Association (RPA) today confirmed the nominees for the RPA Young Player of the Year 2017 as voted for by Aviva Premiership players based on performances in domestic rugby this season.
To qualify for the RPA Young Player of the Year Award players must have been 23 or under at the start of the season.
Quotes from the RPA Young Player of the Year 2017 nominees:
Ellis Genge said: “It means a huge amount to be nominated for the Young Player of the Year award. I must thank everyone who has helped me along the way, my coaches, teammates, family and friends. I have enjoyed my rugby this season and it’s always nice to have the support from my fellow players.”
Alex Lozowski said: “It’s a superb feeling to be nominated by the guys you play against week in, week out, and I’m extremely happy to be up for such a great award. Hopefully as a club we can continue playing well and have a really strong finish to the season.”
Joe Marchant said: “I can’t really believe it to be honest. It’s such a rewarding feeling to know that players from other clubs have voted for me. I have really enjoyed this season. I’ve had a lot of game time, experienced the highs and lows and learnt a huge amount.”
Zach Mercer said: “Rugby is about all the hard work you put in during the season, and to be given an opportunity to play the game you love full-time is such an honour. Therefore to be recognised by my fellow players for the way I play is a massive achievement and I’m completely over the moon to have their support.”
Ross Moriarty said: “I’m really thankful to all the players who have voted for me. There’s no better feeling in rugby than to have the support of your peers. I have enjoyed my rugby this season both at club and international level. It’s been a great experience and I’m looking forward to a big finish to the year.”