Having been presented with both awards including the Edwin Bryant Trophy by the late Press Gang Chairman and popular local Referee`s widow Carole, Heino had time for a chat with the Press Gang.

Having signed for the Pirates from Cardiff Blues during the 2004-2005 season shortly after Jim McKay took control, Heino made his full league debut against Bedford on October 31st 2004 as a flanker in a 30-19 victory for the Cornish side. A month later he switched to his customary position at lock in a win against Rotherham and has become a cornerstone of the Pirates team ever since. Injury kept him out of the Pirates final three matches this season but his stalwart performances throughout the season were enough to earn him both accolades.

After the match he told me, " The support from the fans here means a lot to me. There is always one thing about the Pirates and that is the support. At away games it always seems to outnumber the home team and several times this season it really has! It has disappointing for them in the last few games but we will make up for it."

Looking ahead to next season he said," It was a strange season for me personally. Next season we need to be more of a squad and play more for each other. One thing we could have done better this season is to play more for each other. We have got the talent alright but we need to do that."

I then asked him how he was looking forward to the new campaign and linking up with the new signings for the squad. Senekal said, " Its very exciting. It makes the squad stronger and it makes you want to up your level too. The stronger the competition, the harder you have to train and play."

But after a long hard season the prospect of a few weeks rest and the chances to get his feet up was foremost in Heino`s mind. "I`m looking forward to it so very much" he added as he headed off to celebrate the season with his teammates.

The new season will be soon upon us but Heino Senekal has already carved his name as one of the great Pirates forwards. 

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