Kingston College Men's Football Academy marked the end of an outstanding season with its annual Football Presentation, celebrating the achievements, progress and personalities of its players. Held in great spirit, the event honoured not only individual excellence but also the team culture and resilience that has defined the Academy this year.
With a strong focus on development, dedication and character, the coaching staff presented a range of awards that recognised both performance on the pitch and contributions off it. From standout players and spectacular goals to those who brought humour and heart to the squad, the event reflected the depth of talent and togetherness within the group.
Here are this season’s award winners:
MAIN AWARDS
Players’ Player – Finn Newman
Finn impressed us early on in the trials last spring and we knew he would be an important player for us this season—and he hasn’t disappointed. Finn is now regularly involved with our U18 side. A diligent trainer, great athlete and top competitor, Finn won our 1st Players’ Player award by a mile, picking up 26 votes. Being recognised by your teammates in this way says so much.
Players’ Player – Masa Lannhult
Our second Players’ Player was a much closer affair, with two other players both within a vote (Loré Oshad & Sonny King), but Masa edged it to claim his second award of the season. Masa quietly goes about his business with a fantastic appetite to learn, improve, and compete. A top lad on and off the pitch.
Manager’s Player – Sonny King
One of the most committed, hardworking and likeable players on the Academy. Sonny rarely misses a session, never lets us down and consistently performs well impacting games week in and week out. He rose from the development team to a first-team regular and is now training with our strong U18 side.
Manager’s Player – Masa Lannhult
Our only consistent 2nd-year player after a major rebuild. Masa stuck with the programme when things were tough and is now seeing the rewards of his dedication. Ultra-reliable and consistent in both performance and attendance.
Best Goal – Loré Oshad
A fantastic finish against PDA Luton away: first-time strike, curled across the goal into the side netting from 25 yards. Loré was also a contender for second Players’ Player and he was also in our considerations for Manager’s Player of the Year. He has been a top performer for us all season and is a fierce competitor at training and in games. Loré is another player who is now regularly involved with our U18s and is keen to pursue a Scholarship in the USA.
Best Trainer – Sonny King
Mr Consistent. Sonny has rarely missed a session since joining. He works hard, presents himself correctly, and is respectful towards players and coaches alike during sessions. He is generally a very good lad to have around the place and a fully deserved second award for this player!
Most Improved – Oscar Chiah
Oscar has shown so much improvement this year, having to retrial last year he wasn’t deterred and came back to earn himself a place this season. Early on he struggled with the physical requirements that are placed on footballers at a competitive level, however he has stuck with it, developed his game technically and tactically but more importantly he has developed his physicality and his mindset which is now helping him massively. He is a diligent trainer and is now seeing the fruits of that labour.
Most Improved – George Taylor
Another success story. After retrialling, earning a place in the Academy and then a spot in the development squad, George broke into the first team and is now a regular starter at CB. George is the epitome of someone who has a goal and is GENUINELY driven to reach that goal. George never misses training, is always early and always gives his best physically and mentally….. it is no surprise to see his game go from strength to strength.
Academy Clubman – Liam Jones
Liam embodies what being in a football environment is all about. Joining late, he stepped into goal when needed and handled it with maturity, never complaining and conducted himself impeccably. He also volunteered to set up, film and share content on TikTok which was a first for the Academy - Liam’s enthusiasm, energy and personality has been pretty much unmatched this season.
ALTERNATIVE AWARDS
Clown of the Year – Tom Faulkner
A great character to have around, can take and give banter in equal measures. Despite his cheeky personality he’s been a pleasure to have on board and has certainly provided entertainment when things have been tough this year!
Most Tekky – Zhiwan Talib
Our left-footed wizard. Rumour has it Maradona has a long-lost grandson!
Best Clobber – Mauro Fernandes
As well being a top player, this lad does bits in Bentalls.
Worst Timekeeping – Ibrahim Mansoor
“Early is on time, on time is late and late is unacceptable”… but if Ibz makes it before full time, we’re happy! A top player with a strong season.
The Football Academy would like to thank all players, staff, and supporters for their commitment and contribution throughout the year. Here’s to building on this momentum next season.
