The 2024 Toronto Eagles Australian Football Club Award Gala was held in the vibrant setting of the Lucky Clover Sports Pub, a perfect venue for the club’s annual celebration. Sponsored by Vision Glass, the event was a spectacular evening of recognition, celebration, and reflection on a remarkable season. Players, coaches, sponsors, and club members came together to honor the achievements on and off the field, making it a night to remember.

Check out some of the photos from the night here.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

This year’s gala would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors. A heartfelt thank you goes to:

Their unwavering support has been instrumental in the success of the club and continues to play a vital role in helping the Toronto Eagles soar to new heights.

2024 Award Winners

The awards ceremony was a highlight of the evening, with some of the club’s standout performers and contributors recognized for their achievements this season. Here are the well-deserving winners of 2024:

  • Rising Star Award: Marco Laguapillo
    Laguapillo’s breakout season earned him the Rising Star award. His improving skills, dedication, and potential were on full display throughout the year. Marco’s future with the Eagles looks incredibly bright, and the club is excited to see what he will accomplish in the years to come.
  • Coaches Award: Carson Machin
    Machin’s commitment to growth and development made him a standout with the coaching staff, earning him the Coaches Award. His eagerness to embrace challenging roles and give his best effort in every game highlighted his dedication. His team-first attitude truly distinguished him throughout the season.
  • Defender of the Year: Jarrod Watson
    As a key figure in the Eagles’ defense, Watson’s tenacity and composure under pressure made him an invaluable asset. Whether intercepting the ball or leading the defensive line, his performance throughout the season earned him the Defender of the Year award.
  • Leading Goal Kicker: Jay Himat
    Himat claimed the Leading Goal Kicker award for 2024, showcasing his scoring prowess throughout the season. Although a late-season injury ended his year prematurely, his contributions were vital to the team’s success. Himat’s sharp eye in the forward line, and his ability to turn half-chances into goals was crucial in many tight matches. His impact on the field was missed, and we look forward to his strong return next season.
  • Mark Block Clubman Award
    The prestigious Mark Block Clubman Award, which is proudly sponsored by John and Cathy Pearson, was awarded to Salv Capoferri. This award celebrates those who exemplify dedication, selflessness, and a commitment to the club’s values, both on and off the field. Capoferri has consistently gone above and beyond, embodying the spirit of the Eagles with his hard work, positive attitude, and support for teammates and staff alike.
  • Troy Marsh Best & Fairest Award: Kevin Minaker
    The pinnacle of the night’s awards, the Troy Marsh Best & Fairest Award, went to none other than Kevin Minaker for the fourth time. Minaker’s consistent excellence, leadership, and tireless efforts on the field made him a standout performer once again. His ability to influence games both in attack and defense ensured that he was the rightful recipient of the club’s highest honor for 2024.

When asked about his Best & Fairest win, Minaker said, “I’m incredibly honored to receive the Troy Marsh Best & Fairest Award for the fourth time. This club is like a family to me, and I wouldn’t be here without the support and dedication of my teammates, coaches, and everyone who contributes behind the scenes. This award reflects the effort of the entire team, not just my own, and I’m proud to be part of such a strong, passionate group. I’m looking forward to what we can accomplish together next season.”

Hall of Fame Inductees

A special moment in the evening was the induction of six club legends into the Toronto Eagles Hall of Fame. These individuals have not only left an indelible mark on the club but have also been instrumental in shaping its history and success. The 2024 inductees were:

  • Peter Vitols
  • David Cowling
  • Steve Pyke
  • John Johnston
  • David Heward
  • Mark Van Gelder

Their leadership, on-field excellence, and tireless efforts to grow the Eagles community have made them pillars of the club’s history. Whether through their standout performances on the field or their pivotal roles in community-building and mentorship, these individuals set the standard for what it means to be an Eagle.

Each inductee’s commitment, passion, and contributions to the Toronto Eagles, both on and off the field, have left an indelible mark on the club. Their dedication over the years has helped shape the identity and success of the Eagles, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players, coaches, and volunteers.

As the ceremony concluded, there was a sense of pride in the air, knowing that the legacy of these inductees would continue to inspire the next generation of Eagles. Their induction into the Hall of Fame serves as a well-deserved tribute to their extraordinary careers, and now, standing alongside past inductees, they represent the enduring strength and spirit of the Toronto Eagles, a symbol of what the club has achieved and the bright future ahead.

A Night to Remember

The 2024 Toronto Eagles Award Gala was a night of celebration, unity, and reflection, and the Lucky Clover Sports Pub provided the perfect venue for this special occasion. Their continued support of the club was evident in the seamless organization of the event, from the warm, inviting atmosphere to the delicious food and drinks that kept everyone engaged. Their support has made this and many other events possible, and we look forward to continuing this partnership in the years to come.

The gala was more than just an evening to honor individual and team accomplishments. It was a celebration of the Toronto Eagles’ enduring spirit, the bond between teammates, and the wider community that surrounds the club. From the heartfelt speeches to the shared memories, it was a night to reflect on the collective achievements that have helped shape the Eagles’ rich legacy.

As the event drew to a close, the focus naturally shifted to the future. With the energy and momentum generated from a successful 2024 season, the Toronto Eagles are primed for even greater success in 2025. The commitment of the players, coaches, supporters, and sponsors was palpable throughout the evening, as everyone left the gala with a renewed sense of purpose and enthusiasm.

Looking ahead, the future is bright. The foundation laid in 2024 will propel the Eagles forward, as the club continues to nurture young talent, build stronger connections with the community, and strive for excellence on and off the field. The energy from the gala will serve as a reminder that every member of the Eagles family plays a crucial role in the club’s ongoing success.

Here’s to another thrilling season ahead—Go Eagles!