Student Matt McDonald has been rewarded for his efforts as president of York St John’s Rugby League side with the RFL Yorkshire Young Volunteer award.

The 21-year old, going into his final year at the university, has organised the club for the past two seasons – looking after, among other things, fixtures, referees, transport and sponsorship.

“I’m over the moon,” said McDonald. “I can’t believe I even got nominated.

“It was a lot of hard work, and took a lot of commitment, but I had a good set of lads behind me for support.”

He added: “I’ve really put so much into everything I’ve done at university.

“It wasn’t about just performance; it was about improving the club’s links in the community, with local clubs and businesses. I like to think I’ve been able to move the club forward.”

McDonald, who also finds time to study Sports Science & Injury Management, will now go forward to the RFL’s National Awards, announced at the end of this month.

Leon Crick, Yorkshire Volunteer Co-ordinator, was proud of all the county’s winners.

He said: “I’d like to add my congratulations to all the winners.

“This year we’ve seen dozens of nominations from across the eight Service Areas and the process proved to be very difficult as all the nominees would have been worthy winners.”

Nick Settle, the North Yorkshire Service Area co-ordinator, heaped praise on McDonald.

He explained: “I think one of his tutors at university nominated him originally.

“He’s shown excellent hard-work and dedication.

“He’s going into his final year so he’s had two really successful years and he’s passing on the baton now.”

The York Tigers, McDonald’s side, were unable to repeat last year’s feat of winning the league but McDonald’s commitment to the cause means he has still been a winner this year.

“It is quite an honour to be nominated,” he said.

“I can’t believe I deserved it. I’m chuffed with everything.”