Hardworking Noel worthy choice of Pro League MVP

The 33-year-old hard-working midfielder was the undisputed winner of the MVP crown, having led San Juan Jabloteh to the league, Big Six and Toyota Classic titles.

The honour earned him a Daihatsu Sirion courtesy of sponsors Toyota Trinidad and Tobago Limited.

Later the Carenage resident refused to confirm speculation that he was joining Joe Public instead of United Petrotrin this season. The move was confirmed during the weekend by Joe Public’s coach Derek King.

When asked about winning the award, Noel replied, “It’s a great feeling.

“To get that kind of achievement is a great feeling,” he added. “It shows the hard work I put in, not just on the field but off the field too.”

Noel, who played for Jabloteh from 2002 until 2008, after beginning his professional career with Police, said the key to his success last season was “keeping my head up high and working hard.”

Nonetheless, Noel was displeased about the fact that the awards were announced on Friday, five months after the last season concluded.

“That’s just what I don’t like about our League,” he stated. “It’s a good league but I don’t like the presentation because you never know if a man is going to stay (with his club) or not.

“I think the presentation should (be kept) the same year (as the season),” he continued. “Like how I move on now, I find it feels kind of strange that I’m receiving the trophies, as last year’s captain of Jabloteh.”

Noel, who was virtually overlooked by former national coach Francisco Maturana, is keen on making a positive impression on new Trinidad and Tobago coach Russell Latapy.

“My goal for this year is to stay at a high level as last year, not to drop my ability nor standard,” he stated, “continue to work hard and try to make the (national) team, not as a reserve but on the starting team.”

Other Award–

League Champions: San Juan Jabloteh.

Golden Boot (Leading Goal Scorer): Devon Jorsling (Defence Force) – 21 goals.

Coach of the Year: Terry Fenwick (San Juan Jabloteh).

Team Administrator (Manager) of the Year: Raymond McLean (W Connection).

Team of the Year: San Juan Jabloteh.

Most Disciplined Team: North East Stars.

Referee of the Year: Neal Brizan.

Assistant Referee of the Year: Joseph Taylor.

Match Commissioner of the Year: Boris Punch.