A NEW honour will be presented at the Betfred Super League Awards on October 6.
The Spirit of Super League Award will recognise the players who go beyond their professional commitments and places a strong emphasis on sportsmanship.
The award, in partnership with law firm Ward Hadaway, will be presented at the new Betfred Super League Awards, an end of season celebration at the Lowry Theatre in Salford.
Local media and the charity Rugby League Cares will compile the shortlist of players, with an expert panel deciding the winner.
Ellery Hanley, a three-time winner of the prestigious Man of Steel Award, was joined by representatives of Ward Hadaway and guests at the launch which took place before Leeds Rhinos vs Wigan Warriors on June 14.
And on Friday night the law firm and representatives of Super League were present at Saints to promote the award.
Ellery Hanley, one of the game's all-time greats, unveiled the award
Hanley, who coached Saints to a Super League Grand Final victory in 1999, said: “Rugby League is a sport which is passionately supported by millions of people.
“The Spirit of Super League Award allows us to celebrate the players who are either selfless with their time and profile when giving back to the game, or demonstrate an extraordinary act of sportsmanship on the field.”
The awards evening will take place at The Lowry
Super League chief commercial officer, Rhodri Jones, added: "We are delighted to find a partner in Ward Hadaway, a law firm which shares our values of respect and giving back to our communities.
“We look forward to working together to raise the profile and significance of the award.”
Ward Hadaway is a UK Top 100 law firm with offices in Manchester, Leeds and Newcastle offering the full range of legal services to businesses, individuals, and public and third sector organisations.
Partner Martin Karran said: “Super League and the rugby league family shares Ward Hadaway's sense of responsibility towards our own clients and communities.
“To celebrate the players who use their time and profile to improve their communities is something we are very proud to support.
“We have been working with Rugby League Cares for a couple of years now and it is clear we place the same sense of importance on this award.
“We are delighted to be able to recognise the achievement of players who are selfless, open and who consistently show good values on and the off the pitch.”
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