Hill is named top NASL coach

The former Luton Town star and manager saw his side finish the season in second place, two points off champions San Antonio.

He said: “It is a great honour to be the first recipient of this award, especially with the number of talented coaches around the league.

“I want to thank every person that makes up this organisation as they work hard to make this organisation successful.

“Of course, I want to thank the fans for always supporting the team, and most importantly the team itself.

“They are the ones who take what I show them in practice, and implement it on the field.

“Without them, I would not have received this award and I thank them for their efforts throughout the season.”

Rowdies President and General Manager Andrew Nestor was full of praise for the ex-Town star, adding: “This is well deserved and I’m glad the voters got it right.

“Ricky is a humble teacher of the game, yet also a strong and steady leader, creating an environment in which our players can thrive.

“In two seasons with Ricky we have two trips to the play-offs and two Fair Play Awards largely due to Ricky’s leadership and commitment.”