WHILE Jonny Lomax spoke of his pride in winning Sportsperson of the Year, he said he felt "a little fraudulent" next to some of the "incredible" nominees at the Pride of St Helens Awards.
After steering Saints to a record-breaking four Super League titles in a row and winning the Harry Sunderland Award for his Grand Final display against Leeds Rhinos, Jonny was named as Sportsperson of the Year at this year's awards.
Upon winning the award, the scrum half spoke of his immense pride of being a "St Helens lad" and being able to reflect the "honest and hardworking values” of St Helens on the pitch.
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However, stating that he is "lucky to be a part of such a great group", the 32-year-old said that he felt "a little fraudulent" on accepting the award after listening to some of the "incredible stories" at the awards ceremony.
The nominees included cricketer Ellie Threlkeld who has just been named as captain of Lancashire Thunder, and Liam Burbidge, who plays for England and Everton amputee football team after he lost his leg following a motorbike crash in 2013.
After a record-breaking few years for Saints, Jonny's statement reflects his modesty and humility as he has also had to overcome personal difficulties this year, with his season looking to be over following a ruptured bicep against Salford in April.
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Speaking to the Star, Jonny said this was a difficult time both physically and mentally as he couldn't help the team and was injured around the birth of his daughter.
However, he showed his strength to come straight back into the team, adapt his positioning, and steer the Saints to victory once again.
Once being told he would never play rugby again following a skull fracture as a teenager, this season's story again underlines Jonny's strength and character.
Not taking his position for granted, Jonny said: "This town is built on rugby league, with honest and hardworking values.
"That is what we want to represent every time we go on the field, and I feel very fortunate to be able to do what I love week in and week out."
When asked about taking the Super League record to five titles in a row, he added: "They said we couldn't do four, so why not five?".
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