BERMUDA Hogges have received a ringing endorsement of their progress withstar striker Stephen Astwood being named Rookie of the Year in the USL-D2

awards.

The 25-year-old, who was also named in the USL-D2 All League Team, was theHogges leading goalscorer in their inaugural season despite missing a handful of matches through injury with four strikes.

President Shaun Goater heaped praise on Astwood and said everyone involved with the franchise were proud of his achievements.

"As a team we are very proud of Stephen as well as the team's achievements," he said. "We learned a lot and we're very much looking forward to bigger and better results next year."

Hogges co-owner Paul Scope who said Astwood's accolade reflected well on the Hogges' on-field progress, echoed goater's sentiments.

"Stephen Astwood enjoyed a very successful season. We are very pleased to have Stephen receive this commendation. It speaks to the level of player he is and the level of play possible in Bermuda.

"The Bermuda Hogges first season, although not impressive goal-wise, has actually netted some surprises. Although Stephen won the Rookie of the Year, Bermuda Hogges actually had two of the three players being considered for that title - the other player was Damon Ming."

Astwood was announced as one of the Hogges' two full-time players prior to last season, the other being English non-leaguer Ming, himself a former Somerset Trojan.

During the last domestic season Astwood proved to be one of Trojans' key players, inspiring Somerset to Dudley Eve and Friendship Trophy titles.

But having signed on the dotted line for the Hogges, the former PHC Zebras striker - who has been involved in football trials in both the US and UK - can no longer play in the domestic league, according USL rules.

A USL Spokesperson added: "Although striker Stephen Astwood only tallied four goals and an assist during the season for the first-year Hogges, he left a lasting impression on his opponents to receive All-League honours.

"He led the team in scoring, finishing with one more goal than former Manchester City star Shaun Goater for the season." The Hogges finished bottom of the USL-D2, recording three wins, three draws, and 14 defeats.