Burn and Hayles honoured at 2025 NUDSA awards evening | OneFootball

The Magpies pair delighted supporters with a surprise appearance, stepping up to collect their respective Player of the Year awards before spending time handing out prizes, signing autographs and posing for photos with fans. 

The annual NUDSA awards celebrate players who not only impress on the pitch but also go the extra mile to uphold club values and strengthen the connection with supporters. 

Dan Burn was named NUDSA Men's Player of the Year, capping off what he described as a "dream" 12-month period. The boyhood Magpies fan was honoured as a pivotal part of the defence which formed a foundation for the club's first domestic trophy win in 70 years. 

Speaking as he collected the award, Burn said: "It's been nice to come along tonight to meet so many families and spread a bit of festive cheer. I spoke to Anthony Gordon who was here last year and he had a great time as well. 

"I say every year that I don't think it can be topped, but 2025 has been surreal. I'm incredibly proud to have played a part in bringing a trophy back to Newcastle United and it's nice to be recognised by the fans here this evening. I'm just very, very proud to pick up the award."

Meanwhile, forward Shania Hayles made history as the inaugural winner of the NUDSA Women's Player of the Year award, rewarding a prolific period in front of goal which saw her finish as Newcastle United Women's top scorer in the 2024/25 season. 

Hayles commented: "It's great to meet fans, celebrate the club, and see everyone in the Christmas spirit. I'm honoured to be here tonight, speaking to some amazing people. 

"Personally, I feel that the fans are the best thing about this club. They're our biggest motivation; it's about winning games for them, not just ourselves. We've made history together already and we still have a lot more to do. 

"I came here to score goals and that's what I did last season. I've still got my eye on the prize again this year - the golden boot - and we've still got our eye on promotion."

For more information on NUDSA, please visit www.nudsa.org.