McSpadden is named Ross Sutherland player of the season
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Loose-head prop Mitch McSpadden has spoken of his surprise after claiming Ross Sutherland’s player of the season award.
Results did not go the Stags’ way in Caledonia North Two.
But the 21-year-old’s performances stood out enough for him to take home the individual accolade.
The team’s style last season certainly seemed to bring out the best in McSpadden, but he was by no means going into the club’s virtual awards night expecting to win any prizes.
“I was delighted, it was a tough season for the club, but being recognised as player of the season was very good,” the Alness man said.
“It definitely took my by surprise.
“I had a good season, but there are some good players in the squad just now.
“I found myself being very comfortable last season in the squad that we have. I was playing to the best of my abilities I would say, I really flourished.
“I have a very physical game, that’s my main thing. The style of game that we decided to play last season was a lot more physical, and focused towards the bigger lads.
“That was the main thing for me that helped me play well, being able to show the physical aspect of my game.”
Even at 21 years old, the award shows that McSpadden has already become a senior member of the team.
A year studying in Edinburgh and playing for Falkirk in National One helped his game mature quickly as a teenager, and he has been able to bring that back to Invergordon.
With a big turnover of players in the last few years at Ross Sutherland, McSpadden has found himself playing a mentor role to the youngsters breaking through, and his off-field duties is one area he wants to keep improving over the 2020/21 campaign.
“For some of the younger boys coming through into the seniors, I was able to help them out a fair bit,” he added.
“I just want to continue building my role in the team. I want to take a bit more responsibility with leadership on, and help the younger boys coming through.”
