The Northumbria University graduate caught the eye on debut in the pre-season games with London Welsh, crossing the whitewash against the latter, and was in fine form as Titans began their HALBRO Raging Bull Shield Division One campaign with back-to-back victories against Esher Cardinals and Chinnor Falcons.

A third straight success arrived at home to Richmond Saxons – Mike dotting down at the back of a five-metre scrum – and after his side suffered a first defeat at Bishop’s Stortford Blues, the No. 8 helped inspire a fightback win 33-10 at home to Barnes 2nd XV as he doubled his tally this time picking up at the base of the set-piece to glide across the whitewash.

While he endured a slight drought in the next couple of months, Mike’s skills, strength and speed meant he became a constant source of assists for his teammates, none more eye-catching than his through-the-legs pass to set-up Charlie Robson in the return fixture at Saxons.

Hoyt’s third five-pointer of the campaign at Barnes, Ollie Monye’s no-look pass creating a gaping hole for the back row to stroll through, and he also went over for Titans’ first points in the 32-19 home defeat to Richmond Vikings.

A final-day double in which he showcased his all-round talents – firstly taking over line-out throwing duties to score a clever close-range try before riding over at the back of a maul at Esher – took his tally to six in his maiden season.

However, it was his contribution throughout the campaign which caught the eye of spectators and teammates alike, making Mike a deserved winner of the award.

*Congratulations Mike and also happy birthday from all at Rams!