Rotherham Titans centre Juan Pablo Socino has
been named Championship Player of the Season at the 16th annual
Rugby Players' Association (RPA) Computacenter Players' Awards held
at Battersea Evolution, London.
The Argentinian born Titan was selected by his fellow Championship
captains after an impressive season which saw the 25-year-old
finish as leading points scorer. Having exited this year's race for
the Championship trophy on Saturday, losing to Bristol Rugby over
two-legs, Socino heads for Newcastle after signing a two-year
contract in March.
Speaking about the award, Socino said:
"It's amazing. I never thought it was on the cards. It was such a
massive surprise. It is a huge honour and the fact that it was
voted for by my fellow players make it even more special. I am very
grateful.
"I'd like to thank my wife for being with me the whole way; she is
my cornerstone. As well, the Rotherham players, coaches, staff and
supporters who made this season so memorable."
Rotherham Titans finished fourth in the Championship season, three
places up on last year's final standings. They reached the
knock-out stages for the first time, and all under the stewardship
of first time head coach Lee Blackett. Reflecting on his season
with the Titans and his future with Newcastle, Socino said:
"A few days after and I can look back and say we had an amazing
season. Reaching the semi-final was huge not just for me, but for
all the players, coaches and staff. We were obviously disappointed
to have lost, but overall we can look back and be pleased with the
season.
"I am now looking forward to starting a new chapter with
Newcastle; it's a dream come true. I came to the UK four years ago
chasing the dream of playing professional rugby, and I just
can't wait to get stuck in."
Socino played in both Rotherham's matches against Jersey this
season, kicking 10 points in each game. He's pictured (below,
by Sue Trower) in a rare 'back-foot' moment after Tom Brown's
try for Jersey against Titans at St Peter.
For more info on the RPA and the awards event see HERE. Jersey flanker Guy Thompson
was one of three players short-listed for the 2012/13 Championship
Player of the Year, which was won by Nottingham's Tim Streather.
Thompson has since joined London Waps, while Streather moved to
Saracens.
