Paisley Pirates Celebrate a Season of Grit and Growth at End-of-Season Awards Night

The Paisley Pirates capped off the 2024/25 season with a night of celebration, reflection, and heartfelt appreciation at our annual End-of-Season Awards Night. Held in the welcoming surroundings of David Lloyd Renfrew, the evening brought together players, staff, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters to honour a year filled with growth, passion, and true Pirate spirit.

The evening opened with a moving speech from Head Coach Ian Turley, who took the time to reflect on the journey the team had undertaken over the past year. Ian spoke warmly of the challenges faced and the immense pride he felt for the group—not just for what they achieved on the ice, but for the character, camaraderie, and commitment they showed week in and week out. He extended heartfelt thanks to the players for their relentless effort, to the coaching and managerial team for their unwavering dedication, and to the volunteers whose work so often goes unseen but is absolutely vital to the running of the club.

Following Ian’s speech, the first awards of the night were given to our incredible volunteers. It was a moment to publicly recognise the countless hours of work and the endless energy our volunteers pour into the Pirates, week after week. From off-ice support to game day operations, these individuals are the true backbone of the club, and it was a privilege to honour them with tokens of appreciation.

Next, the club turned its gratitude to the leadership behind the bench. Ian Turley Sr., Rab Henderson, and Jason Barr were each presented with tokens of thanks, recognising their commitment, strategic vision, and the countless sacrifices they have made to help guide and develop the team.

As the night progressed, the players themselves were individually called up to the stage, where they received their thanks and in turn presented their Own and Loan jerseys to their individual sponsors—a personal moment celebrating the unique bond between players and supporters that makes this club so special.

Another special moment of the night was dedicated to our match-day mascots, who were honoured with their very own award. These young Pirates have brought energy, excitement, and pure joy to every home game, leading the team onto the ice with pride and passion. It was a pleasure to recognise their important role in creating the unique, family atmosphere that makes Braehead Arena feel like home.

Then it was onto the major awards of the night:

• Volunteer of the year went to Raymond Monaghan for his dedication on game nights with assisting with match recording and live social media updates during gameplay.

• Jim Liddle Player of the Year Award, as voted by the fans, was presented by Supporters Club Chair Marie Cadenhead to a thoroughly deserving winner—our captain, Chris Turley. A true leader on and off the ice, Chris embodied everything it means to be a Paisley Pirate this season.

• Most Improved Player, selected by the coaching staff, was awarded to Jay Herd, recognising his outstanding growth, maturity, and impact throughout the year.

• Outstanding Effort and Attitude, another coach’s choice, was fittingly awarded to Chris Turley, underlining his relentless work ethic and positive influence across the squad.

• Difference Maker Award, recognising game-changing contributions throughout the season, was awarded to Chris Wilson, whose consistency and dynamism made him a constant threat on the ice.

• MVP Award, the coaches' pick for the most valuable player of the season, went to our outstanding goaltender Daniel McGowan, whose performances between the pipes gave the team a fighting chance in every single game.

• Finally, the prestigious Players' Player Award—voted for by the players themselves—was a fitting tribute to the team’s unity, ending in a draw between Chris Turley and Chris Wilson. Two players who truly earned the respect and admiration of their teammates.

A huge thank you must also go to our sponsors for the 2024/25 season. Your support is what keeps the Pirates thriving:

• The Falke Family

• Renfrewshire Council

• Cyclelane

• Custom Sports Stitch

• Al Goold Photography

• Abbey Services

• Hillington Tyre Services

• Studio 13

• Cold Blooded Sports

• Paisley Pirates Supporters Club

We are truly grateful for your belief in our team and our mission.

Finally, and most importantly, we close this season with a heartfelt thank you to every single person who is part of the Paisley Pirates family—our supporters, volunteers, staff, coaching team, sponsors, the players, and our future stars in the U19s Lightning Pirates.

This club thrives because of the people who pour their heart into it, on and off the ice. Your passion, your energy, and your unwavering support fuel everything we do. As we look ahead to next season, we do so with a heart full of pride, gratitude, and excitement for what’s still to come.

The journey continues. And we can't wait to write the next chapter—together.