A Sunderland player has been named the North East Football Writers' Association's men’s player of the year since 2025

Sunderland's stellar 2025 has been recognised in the North East Football Writers' Association's annual awards.

Dan Ballard has been named the men's Player of the Year, becoming the first Sunderland player since Jermain Defoe in 2016 to win the award. Ballard has been recognised for his role in Sunderland's spectacular rise over the course of the year, starring in the club's play-off campaign and scoring one of the club's most iconic goals in recent memory against Coventry City. Ballard has gone on to become a key player in Sunderland's Premier League XI as they confounded all pre-season expectations through the first half of the campaign.

Ballard said he was 'incredibly honoured' by the recognition.

"I’m incredibly honoured to receive this award - it really means a lot,” said Ballard.

“The last year has been nothing short of unbelievable, from that moment in the Play-Off semi-final to winning at Wembley as we did, and then everything that has followed.

"Those are memories I’ll carry with me forever. None of it happens without my team-mates, the staff, and the supporters who’ve been with us every step of the way.

"To now be playing in the Premier League with Sunderland and to receive recognition from the North-East football writers makes it even more special. It’s been a dream-like year, and I’m proud to share this moment with everyone connected to the Club.”

Newcastle United's Lewis Miley was named the NEFWA Young Player of the Year, following on from Chris Rigg and Jobe Bellingham's joint win in 2024.

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Sunderland Women duo pick up awards

Sunderland Women have also been recognised in the awards, winning both the Women's Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year awards.

Katie Kitching has been named Player of the Year for her continued excellence over the course 2025, a vital part of Mel Reay's side. Kitching has been a regular since joining the club from London City Lionesses in 2023, not only a tireless midfielder but also a dependable goalscorer - often from long range. Forward Katy Watson has been named Young Player of the Year for the second time in three years in recognition of her continued progress at the club.

The trio will be recognised at the annual awards ceremony at Ramside Hall Hotel on Sunday, March 1st.

Tickets for the North-East Football Writers’ Association awards are available by emailing [email protected].

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