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While KEN Davy is often recognized for his impact on rugby league and the communities it serves, he stresses that this accolade is not merely about him.
This OBE also pays tribute to his late wife Jennifer and all the volunteers who commit their time to support Huddersfield in their endeavors.
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Giants owner Davy is among four rugby league figures to receive honors in the King’s New Year’s list.
Since unsealing the envelope a few weeks ago, he has radiated pride while keeping the news a secret from his family.
Yet, he believes this honor goes beyond personal acknowledgment, expressing: “My only regret is that my dear wife Jennifer, who would have been thrilled, isn’t here to see it.
“Certainly, this is a tribute for both of us, but it’s also a recognition for the numerous volunteers and dedicated, unsung heroes who brave all weather to introduce young people to rugby league.
“Engagement in sports is crucial for youth; it fosters responsibility, teamwork, and discipline—traits that cultivate good citizens.
“None of this would be achievable without the tireless commitment of those volunteers who continually support young people on their rugby league journeys during their formative years.
“Ultimately, this celebration is more about them than it is about me or even the Huddersfield Giants.
“But I’m genuinely elated; I couldn’t be happier. Opening that envelope brought me immense joy.”
Davy shares this honor with the renowned official Tony Martin, a well-known touch judge since Super League’s inception in 1996, maintaining his role for 25 seasons.
He has officiated at 10 Grand Finals, five Challenge Cup finals, and the 2000 World Cup Final at Old Trafford. Even in his late 60s, he was seen on the touchline at the recent hybrid 745 Game, a fundraiser for motor neurone disease charities.
Leeds chairman Paul Caddick, who received an MBE for his contributions to sports, remarked: “When my wife Alex and I came back in 1996, we realized we were caretakers of something significantly larger than just a team or a venue.
“We were guardians of a site that dates back to Queen Victoria’s time, where generations of fans have created unforgettable memories over the years.
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“We have always kept this in mind, and I take great pride in the home we have created for Leeds Rhinos as we move forward.”
Women’s rugby league trailblazer Andrea Dobson, who represented Great Britain in 2003 at 16 and is now integral to the Sheffield Eagles’ foundation overseeing its expansion into three wheelchair teams, two women’s teams, and one of the largest sectors for learning disability rugby league in the country, has also been awarded an MBE.
She stated: “Rugby league has significantly shaped my life, and being recognized by His Majesty for simply pursuing my passion is deeply humbling.
“Rugby league, especially in the women’s division, often doesn’t receive the recognition it merits, and by accepting this honor, I hope to elevate the visibility of our sport and acknowledge everyone who dedicates their time to ensure its success at all levels.”
Rugby Football League chief executive Tony Sutton commented: “It is an honor to recognize four individuals who have made incredible contributions over many years, and whose recognition is entirely well-deserved.”
