Leonard Jean-Pierre named ORU Rookie of the Year

Former Winnipeg Blue Bomber Leonard Jean Pierre - "The Black Seal" (or "Le Phoque Noir" en francais), has been named Rookie of the Year in the Ontario Senior League, at the annual Hall of Fame and awards dinner Friday night.

The elusive "Phoque" in only his second full season, beat out University of Guelph prop / flanker Ron Hamilton of the Cup champion Harlequins for the honour.

Mark Thompson, who had a solid season for the Irish and the RCSL Xtreme, lost out to Barclay Luke of Brantford for player of the year.

Coach Mark Winokur, who handled the Irish, the Toronto Xtreme and had an assistant role with Canada "A" All Stars vs. New Zealand Maori, was beaten out by Aurora Barbarians coach Drew MacPherson, who led his team to a 14-0 record in the B division before going out of the cup at Oakville by five tries to one.

Over 120 attended the dinner, with funds raised going back into Ontario rugby.