Luke Polding is up for a Berkshire Football Award in the category of Player of the Season (Male) sponsored by Grundon Waste Management.
Polding was the clubs top appearance maker this season for Thatcham Town playing 40 times, scoring three times in the Combined Counties League Premier Division South.
One nomination for the award said: “I am proud to nominate Luke Polding for Player Of The Season. Luke joined Thatcham Town during a summer of significant transition for the club. He has since been the heartbeat of our squad. Making the jump from Step 7 to Step 5 is no easy feat, yet Luke has handled the step up with incredible ease.
“He is a managers player, a consistent 8 or 9 out of 10 every single week who literally covers every blade of grass. His physical output is unmatched, he possesses an elite work rate that sees him involved in every phase of play, While his defensive tracking and effort are faultless he has the quality to chip in with a few goals too. Luke is a vauled and loyal member of the team and leads by example, never misses a training session or match and has stuck by the club through every challenge this season – all this makes him an indispensable asset to the team”
Another added: “I would like to nominate Luke for Player of the Season. In a year of transition and challenges, Luke has been the most consistent heartbeat of our squad. With 42 appearances under his belt, he has been the first name on the team sheet, proving himself to be an asset to Thatcham Town.
“Luke defines the phrase “100% effort.” Whether it is the 1st minute or the 90th, his intensity never wavers. He sets the standard for the rest of the group, leading by example rather than just words.
“While he has chipped in with 3 vital goals from midfield, his true mastery lies in his defensive transition. His ability to track back, sniff out danger, and win challenges is, quite simply, the best in the league. He breaks up play before the opposition can even settle.
“This season, Luke made the jump up two levels of football. While many players struggle with the increased pace and physicality, Luke has played with a composure that suggests he has been at this level for years. His adaptability is a testament to his football intelligence.
“Off the pitch, Luke’s dedication is unmatched. He is a “twice-a-week” trainer who approaches every session with the same focus as a cup final. His commitment to the cause and his loyalty to the badge make him a true clubman.
“Luke isn’t just a player, he is the engine room of Thatcham Town. He does the dirty work that allows others to shine, and he does it with a smile and a tireless grit.”
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