Teenager named Apprentice of the Year
Conor Chaplin has been named LFE League Two Apprentice of the Year at the 2015 Football League Awards.
The teenage forward beat off competition from AFC Wimbledon’s Ben Harrison and Stevenage’s Ryan Johnson to pick up the prize at a gala ceremony in London.
After receiving the trophy, he told host Simon Thomas: “It’s a fantastic achievement. There are a lot of apprentices in League Two and to be top of the pile is great.”
Chaplin made his senior debut back in December and has made a total of seven appearances this season, netting his first goal at Morecambe earlier this month.
A Football League statement said: “Conor has shown a professional and conscientious approach to all that he does and has enjoyed a positive second year of his apprenticeship following injury in the first.
“He is very demanding of himself and always wants to improve his performances, readily engaging with coaching staff to identify areas of development.
“Judges took into account the record of the player in all competitions since he became an apprentice, as well as his educational attainment and disciplinary record.”
Craig Westcarr was denied the Mitre Goal of the Year award for his stunning strike against Yeovil in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy, with Preston’s Joe Garner claiming the prize.
And deputy safety officer Mike Turner – who has worked at Fratton Park in a variety of roles for more than 40 years – missed out on the Tokio Marine Kiln Club Hero award.
Highlights of the 2015 Football League Awards will be shown on Sky Sports 1 on Monday evening at 6.15pm and 9.15pm.