The international sevens representative lit up the competition with his acceleration and pace, scoring nine tries.
14. Dean Fenwick (Kurow)
Mr Consistent for the defending champions.
13. Ben Nowell (Kurow)
Class is permanent, as they say, and the well-travelled utility back has never lost his ability to create and control.
12. Ryley MacColl (Athletic Marist)
Has evolved into an all-round class act who is at the heart of a team improving gradually.
11. Asesela Ravuvu (Valley)
His forwards get all the praise but ‘‘Junior’’ is always ready to show his pace and power.
10. Hayden Parker (Kurow)
Not much left to say. The most influential player in three or four generations of North Otago rugby. Not tempted for a Heartland run, Hayden?
9. Tini Feke (Old Boys)
All energy and bustle, and tied Qiolevu and Sam Sturgess on a competition-leading nine tries.
8. Cameron Rowland (Valley)
Big year for the man they call ‘‘Chicken’’ — became a father, captained his beloved club to an unbeaten season, scored two tries in the final.
7. Mat Duff (Excelsior)
A relentless, inspirational figure for Blues as they came desperately close to winning their first Citizens Shield since 1997.
6. Petero Tuisiga (Excelsior)
Teenager who was converted from a fullback. Precocious talent.
5. Blake Welsh (Valley)
Honest toiler in the champion pack who was a key cog in a magnificent set piece.
4. Ryan Adam (Excelsior)
Unsung hero who threw himself about all over the park.
3. George Orry (Kurow)
English import was the rock in a radically rejigged pack for the defending champions.
2. Jake Greenslade (Valley)
Versatile, powerful and vigorous forward who doesn’t know how to take a step back.
1. Melikisua Kolinisau (Valley)
Comfortably the best scrummager in the district.
Reserves: Hayden Tisdall (Maheno), Kelepi Funaki (Old Boys), Epineri Logavatu (Athletic Marist), Sam Sturgess (Valley), Jake Matthews (Valley), Lachie Kingan (Maheno), Ben Paton (Valley).
