LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The NZ Warriors have capped off their remarkable comeback season by being named as finalists in the Team of the Year category for the prestigious 61st ISPS Handa Halberg Awards.
This achievement puts them in the company of sporting titans such as the All Blacks, the dominant force in rugby union, and the Black Fern Sevens and All Black Sevens, both powerhouses in the sevens format.
However, despite his exceptional performances throughout the season, star halfback Shaun Johnson was surprisingly left out of the Sportsman of the Year finalists.
It seems that even in the world of sports, individual brilliance can sometimes be overshadowed by team success.
In another twist, coach Andrew Webster was deemed ineligible for the Coach of the Year award due to its New Zealand-born coaches only requirement.
This serves as a reminder that sometimes barriers and restrictions can prevent deserving individuals from receiving the recognition they deserve.
Nevertheless, the NZ Warriors CEO, Cameron George, expressed his delight at the team's inclusion, stating that it adds a touch of sparkle to the club's already remarkable 2023 season.
It's clear that the Warriors have left an indelible mark on the Rugby League landscape, and their accomplishments should not be underestimated.