Andrea Masi, Italy’s powerful back, has been announced as the official RBS Player of the Championship for the 2011 RBS 6 Nations. Over 17,000 votes were registered ensuring that the RBS Player of the Championship award was won by an Italian for the first time.

On receiving the trophy, Andrea commented, “It has been a Championship of highs and lows for the Italian team, our win against France will go down in rugby history but to finish sixth frustrated us all. However, to be named the RBS Player of the Championship is a fantastic way to end what has been one of the most competitive Championships I can remember. We have worked hard this year and can be proud of our achievements. Italian rugby continues to strengthen and we are very happy with our progress as a team. To be the first Italian voted to win this award by the fans is a huge compliment.”

The 2011 RBS Player of the Championship was decided as a result of a public vote, hosted on www.rbs6nations.com. The shortlist was compiled of winners of the RBS Man of the Match award from the first four weekends. Andrea received his for Italy’s historic victory over France, scoring a try in that game as well as in their tie against Scotland.

Andrea Masi won his RBS 6 Nations Player of the Championship Award whilst securing over 30% of the votes whilst Fabio Semenzato, also on the shortlist, came in second with just under 12%. The two Italians were closely followed by Sean O’Brien of Ireland and Toby Flood of RBS 6 Nations Champions England, both gaining just over 10% of the votes.

RBS 6 Nations Player of the Championship Shortlist
• Andrea Masi (Italy)
• Fabio Semenzato (Italy)
• Toby Flood (England)
• Chris Ashton (England)
• Sean O’Brien (Ireland)
• Sam Warburton (Wales)
• Ronan O’Gara (Ireland)
• Maxime Medard (France)
• James Haskell (England)
• James Hook (Wales)
• Tom Palmer (England)
• Thierry Dusautoir (France)

Who did you vote for? Do you think it’s a fair result?

Don’t forget that you can still register your club for RBS RugbyForce. Enter your details at www.rbs.co.uk/rugbyforce

RBS RugbyForce encourages communities across the UK to give something back to their local rugby club. The RBS RugbyForce weekend (11th & 12th June 2011) brings together club members, family, friends and supporters in one big weekend of hard work and fun, encouraging volunteers to spend some time at their local club, helping with the required improvements to make their club the best it can be. One club from each of the home nations will also receive an enhanced support package including £5,000 to help with a major improvement project and a visit from an international player. www.rbs.co.uk/rugbyforce