SWF award successes crown double-winning season for Buckie Ladies
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A DOUBLE award win has crowned off an unforgettable season for Buckie Ladies.
Manager Laura Duncan and goalkeeper Sophia Golebiewski were victorious at the SWF Annual Awards at Hampden Park in Glasgow.
Duncan was named Volunteer of the Year, while 18-year-old Banff-based keeper Golebiewski was named Player of the Year.
Golebiewski, who is autistic, has flourished since joining Buckie Ladies two years ago – helping them on their way to an undefeated cup and league double this year.
She said: "I was shocked to get the award. It wasn't really expected.
"Goalkeeper training and training with my brother have helped me a lot. I'm really enjoying it and the team's support is great.
"To other girls like me: keep going, keep trying and if you believe you can do it then you can."
Proud dad Adam thanked Sophia's team mates, as well as Buckie Ladies' fans for helping her throughout the campaign.
"The supporters have been amazing," he added. "It's really helped Sophia.
"That support she has had from the players and supporters has helped her along the way.
"About eight of the girls were in Glasgow for the awards and they were all up and cheering when she won."
Manager Laura Duncan took over Buckie Ladies off the back of a cup and league double – pretty difficult to improve on.
But she managed to do just that, leading her side to an undefeated cup and league double. Her first word was for her goalkeeper.
"I was so chuffed for Sophia," she said. "She has come on so much.
"She is very passionate. Every match she gives 100 per cent and works hard at training. She's very, very talented.
"She is very confident with the ball at her feet. The back four are comfortable playing the ball back to her.
"The more involved she is the better for her – she hates games when she is quiet – although I prefer it the other way!"
On her own award, Volunteer of the Year, Laura – who stays in Buckie – added: "I wasn't expecting it at all. It was great to even be shortlisted never mind to win it.
"The players were delighted and I got a nice cheer when I won so that was a nice touch.
"It was really good to spend some time with the players and be at Hampden. It was just a really good atmosphere.
"Last year was amazing, so to do that little bit more this year is great.
"A big thanks to everybody that nominated myself and Sophia. We don't do this for awards or to be recognised but it is nice."
Buckie Ladies were also shortlisted for Sustainable Club of the Year, but didn't win the award on the night.
