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Spence honoured as Trimble awarded Player of the Year in Ulster

‘Although he is no longer here in person, his spirit continues to inspire and motivate each and every member of the squad.’

ULSTER RUGBY HAVE tonight honoured their 42-times capped centre, Nevin Spence, by naming him their rugby personality of the year.

Spence, 22, died in a farming accident at his home in Hillsborough Co. Down on 15 September and the tragic events of that day have never been far from the minds of the province’s players and staff.

©INPHO/Presseye/Darren Kidd

“Nevin’s presence has been with the Ulster Rugby team throughout this season.” The province said in a statement this evening.

“Although he is no longer here in person, his spirit continues to inspire and motivate each and every member of the squad.”

Ulster will hold their awards dinner this weekend having beaten Llanelli Scarlets to take their place in the RaboDirect Pro12 final at the RDS on 25 May.

There, Andrew Trimble will receive a double honour: Despite Nick Williams being named Pro12 and IRUPA player of the year last week, the wing will collect the overall and supporter’s player of the year gongs.

Robbie Diack, who has been an important part of the Ulster back row in the continued absence of Stephen Ferris is named most improved player, while young player of the year goes to Ireland international Iain Henderson. A man even younger, Stuart Olding is the academy player of the year.

The province also handed out their first ever women’s player of the year, that goes to Grand Slam winner, Ashleigh Baxter.

As it happened: Ulster v Llanelli Scarlets, Pro12 semi-final

The tries that have put Ulster on the brink of a place in the Pro12 final

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