COUGAR Academy manager Jeremy Crowther was still blazing as he arrived at the club's presentation night last Friday.

Jeremy's ticket to watch the Leeds v Wigan Super League showdown had been sold to a friend by his son - and he was not happy.

However, it was all part of a plot to get the popular manager and coach to the Cougar Park showpiece.

Jeremy had won the Clubman of the Year award, but it had been a carefully kept secret and he knew nothing about it.

"He has done a tremendous job for the club and is a genuine ambassador for rugby league," said a club spokesman.

He almost stole the limelight from Phil Stephenson who was crowned Players' Player of the Year and also took the top awards, the Supporters Club Player of the Year trophy.

Andy Robinson was the Most Improved Player of the Year and Simeon Hoyle took the Best Video Moment award.

Eddie Wilson was crowned the Young Player of the Year and James Feather was named Under-21 Player of the Year.

"In many ways it has been a very frustrating season, but Phil Stephenson has probably had his best season for the club," said coach Gary Moorby.

There was further good news as many members of the squad signed contracts for the coming season and Danny Ekis announced he would till be with the club next season. His plans to travel to Australia had been put on hold after gaining promotion at work and he would be staying at Cougar Park.

Jason Clegg has also signed and should give the team a fearsome front row.

Moorby has also singed Colin Flynn from Stanningley. The 6ft 2ins, 16-stone back row or centre is just 18 years old and has impressed with the club's Under-18 Academy side.

He will move up to the Under-21s this season and many of the young players will also get their chance to perform in the senior ranks.

"We still have several irons in the fire but the squad is starting to come together and we can look forward to a positive season in 2005. We have players who want to play for Cougars and want to do well," Gary Moorby said.