The Highlanders made the grand final of the Armidale and District Football Asociation competition this year after beating Guyra in an action packed semi that Maroney played a starring role in.

Maroney was moved from midfield into striker during that game and he ran through Guyra’s back line to score a great individual goal, according to coach Jason Reed that performance gave him the points to win the team’s 2016 best player award.

“It was close between him and Blake Hayden, but that game got him the points to win the award,” he said.

Moroney said he was “over the moon” to have won the prestigious award.

“I think I had a good season and the team improved on last year so it was good to play in the team this year,” he said.

“I had more time to train this season and I got a bit fitter so that is probably a good reason as to why I won the award.

“I think we can improve on this season as a team and I know I can get better, so things are looking up at the Highlander’s.”

Maroney said his season highlight was the semi-final win over Guyra. 

“Winning the semi-final was the best feeling I have had in many years in soccer,” he said.

“Winning a semi and getting into a Grand Final was great, its just a pity we didn't win the big one, but we’ll be back next year.

“It is an honour to be picked by the boys as their best player and I thought I finished the year strongly and I can’t wait to start training for next season.”

Club President Robert Ferris said Maroney was a dominant player in many games this season and thoroughly deserved the award.

“He was our standout player all year,” Mr Ferris said.

“Young Blake Hayden, who was awarded our rookie of the year also had a cracking year, but Mick really deserves to get the best and fairest because he stood up for us in so many games this year when we needed him to.

Mr Ferris said Maroney was the amongst the fairest players he has seen in his time playing and coaching football.

“He plays the game in such a good spirit, you won’t find a cleaner player,” he said.