The best of the best added extra silverware to their trophy cabinets at the Bond University Rugby Club’s annual awards night.
On the back of a history-making premiership double by the Bull Sharks’ premier men and women, the club turned out in force at The Island in Surfers Paradise on Friday night.
The night honoured the players and club people who set the standard in a season that will go down in Bond history.
Premier men’s skipper Tyler Campbell – who stamped his name as a legend of Bond Rugby at Ballymore last week when he won the Tony Shaw Medal as best-on-ground in the Bull Sharks’ 27-25 Hospital Cup Grand Final triumph over Brothers – capped off a stunning season by taking out the Slipper Trophy as player of the year.
Bond’s acting GM of Rugby Sean Hedger said Campbell’s influence went well beyond the field and positively impacted every part of the club.
“He’s the captain of the team and a leader in every way,” Hedger said.
“He leads with actions, holds players to account and provides a great role model.”
In the women’s program, Paris Mohr was rewarded for her tireless season with the Premier Women’s Award.
The lock–backrower has also earned Queensland selection after anchoring the Bull Sharks to a fourth consecutive Founders Cup premiership with their 32-29 Grand Final win over Easts.
“Paris is a tireless worker on the field and one of the best trainers in the squad,” Hedger said.
“Like Campbell, she’s a standard-setter on culture – and one of the best celebration leaders post-match.”
Young gun Fergus Gillan capped his breakout season with the rising star award after starring in Colts 1’s minor premiership campaign.
“He was outstanding in his lineout-winning abilities all year and became a running threat as the season progressed. He is a weapon in attack and defence,” Hedger said.
The wheelchair rugby program also had its moment in the spotlight with Paralympian Brayden Foxley-Connolly named best and fairest.
“He’s a great leader, with an aggressive playing style and he loves the rough stuff,” Hedger said. “He has progressed through the pathway to now represent Australia, which is a magnificent achievement.”
Two special honours recognised those who have given extraordinary service to the club.
Petrus Du Plessis received the Fabian Fay Club Person of the Year Award for his all-in commitment across playing, coaching and volunteering.
“Petrus is a person willing to put his hand up for any role in the club. His energy is unwavering yet always delivered with a level of high performance,” Hedger said.
Meanwhile, last year’s recipient Lawrence Faifua was elevated to life membership. Affectionately known as “Uncle” by his players, Faifua has been central to all four of Bond’s women’s premierships and served as head coach for the 2023 and 2025 titles.
“Lawrence has created not just a team environment but a family environment,” Hedger said.
“He combines care with accountability and has built the most successful women’s program in Australia.”