As the new year begins the London Silverbacks officially celebrated their 2007 championship season with their annual awards banquet. A festive event that once again saw a jam-packed banquet area filled with many cheers, and tears, of joy for a familial occasion that has become a great illustration of why the team has been so successful and has great expectations for the future.
Six awards were handed out on the evening with a surprisingly equal split between defensive and offensive players as well as rookies and vets. The award winners were:
Dave Martin (Linebacker) – Team MVP
LB Dave Martin is an inspiring story of a player coming back from what was feared
to be a career ending neck injury to be the heart and soul of the team making one
big play after another leading the defense in interceptions and touchdowns.
Steve Panella (Quarterback) – Offensive MVP
QB Steve Panella joined the Silverbacks in July after an impressive Arena
Football League season which saw him receive International Player of the year.
Panella’s leadership and command of the game helped put a potent offense over the
top and earned him game MVP honours in the Silverbacks championship win in Las Vegas.
Derek Difelice (Strong Safety) – Defensive MVP
SS Difelice continued from where he left off in 2006 as a big impact player that
made both qbs and wide receivers game planning around him. A true student of the
game Derek allowed the defense to virtually have a coach on the field keeping
opposing offenses one step behind.
Rob Eeuwes (Punter/Kicker) – Special Teams MVP
One of multiple players recommended by the Silverbacks affiliate, the Toronto
Argos (CFL) Rob Eeuwes was a terrific offseason pick up for the ‘Backs that
helped ensure the defense favourable field position to keep opponents on their
heels. As most great players Eeuwes’ best game would be in the championship where
he put on a clinic in the fading art of coffin corner kicks combined with big leg
power. Eeuwes was the Silverbacks secret weapon.
Pete Vermeer / Dani Maola (Running backs)- Rookie of the year
A great runningback tandem Vermeer and Maola had a stellar rookie season both
contributing significantly to the air and ground game ensuring defense would have
to cover the whole field when the Silverbacks offense took the stage.
Wes Beharrel (Outside Linebacker) – Kenemy Award (An annual award given to the
player showing exceptional passion, commitment and dedication to the Silverbacks
and community).
OLB Beharrel was one of the first players to ever sign a contract with the ‘Backs
and continues to be a great role model for players to follow. A leader on the
field winning numerous all-star nominations as well as supporting the team in
community events Wes is a great example of what the London Silverbacks are all about.