For the Cowra Magpies, few players have embodied leadership, consistency, and determination quite like Ricky Whitton.
Recognised as First Grade Player of the Year and Top Point Scorer at the Woodbridge Cup Presentation, Whitton’s 2025 season was a showcase of grit, skill, and influence both on and off the field.
Coach Phil Ingram said the award was a natural result of Whitton’s unwavering commitment across the season.
“He was really one of our leaders and just controlled the game,” Ingram said.
“His fitness and determination that he showed all year to do his best for us as a club really stood out.
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“Through the season he was one of, if not, our best all game, all year, and it really showed,” he said.
Despite the physical toll of a long career and discussions of possible retirement, Whitton delivered week in, week out, setting the tone for the Magpies.
Whitton’s impact wasn’t just steady, it was decisive.
He regularly provided the spark when his team needed it most.
“There were a few games where he started us off really well, getting the first try and putting us on the right foot,” Ingram said.
“One of the standout games was up at Oberon.
“Even though we lost by two points, he put us in good field position to have a chance to win that game.
“It just slipped away late, but he was a big part of keeping us in it,” he said.
Other moments during the season also highlighted his composure and quality.
“There was one game at home, I think against Carcoar or Molong, where he scored a couple of tries and didn’t miss a kick all day,” Ingram said.
“Performances like that really set us up for victory.
“His goal kicking gave us confidence as a side,” he said.
Beyond the scoreboard, Whitton’s presence lifted the entire squad.
“From a coach’s perspective, his impact was massive,” Ingram said.
“It gave the players confidence every week knowing he was out there.
“Even though he’s getting on in age and thinking about retirement, he’s played his best footy the last couple of years.
“He brought control, calmness, and a collective attitude.
“When we needed a spark, he was the one to find it or kickstart something for us,” he said.
That influence extended beyond the field, helping shape a culture of resilience and belief within the Magpies.
This season also saw Whitton take on more formal leadership duties, sharing the captaincy with Stephen Ingram, after an early injury ruled out the original choice.
“I named young Jake as captain at the start of the year, but he got injured, so Ricky and Stephen stepped up as co-captains,” Ingram said.
“They took it on with both hands and fed off each other.
“Stephen controlled the forwards, Ricky controlled the backs, and together they guided the whole team around the park.
“It worked really well.
“He’s always had a leadership role, especially as halfback, but this year he really took it on more.
“When we were down in the dumps a bit, he was always the one to set us up and get us going,” he said.
For Ingram, there was no doubt Whitton’s recognition as First Grade Player of the Year was richly deserved.
“I just want to congratulate him on a great year,” Ingram said.
“He worked really hard for it, and it was well deserved.
“Hopefully it’s not his last, but his body is a bit sore, so we’ll see what happens in the next couple of months.
“If he gets the itch to go around again, we’ll go from there,” he said.
Whatever his decision, Whitton has left an indelible mark on the club.
“He’s a real crowd pleaser,” Ingram said.
“Everyone loves watching him play, he makes football look easy.”
As the Magpies look to build on their 2025 season, Whitton’s leadership, skill, and quiet inspiration will remain a benchmark for what it means to wear the black and white jersey.
