Howard honoured again

St Andrews Table Tennis Club’s Howard Lee capped off a terrific season at the club’s AGM last night when he was awarded the Graham Neilson trophy for the most improved player over the last twelve months.

Howard Lee (L) is presented with the Graham Neilson trophy by chairman, Neil Lea

Howard fended off stiff opposition from a number of strong candidates but he was the Committee’s unanimous choice (with the exception of Howard’s own vote) after playing a pivotal role in helping Prefects to the DDTTA second division title and improving his personal average (win rate) from 47% in season 2013/14 to a remarkable 80% this year. Beat that.

There is apparently no truth in the rumour that Howard is installing a larger mantelpiece to display his numerous medals this season, or that the damage to the Neilson trophy was inflicted ‘Calcutta Cup style’ by last year’s winner not wishing to give it up.

The AGM also saw secretary, Ian Smith, step down after three years sterling service. Ian’s reputation, in particular for writing quality minutes, is second to none and he will be a hard act for newly-elected secretary, Dave Beveridge to follow. Dave’s previous role as publicity officer was filled by Collin Bleak. Whether Collin can match Dave’s reputation for political incorrectness remains to be seen. The other office bearers were all re-elected.