The hard-working front rower was crowned the Bundaberg Red Cup Most Valuable Player at a presentation dinner last Thursday.

It was a bittersweet victory after Cabramatta's 24-20 grand final defeat at the hands of Wentworthville.

``It was definitely a shock to win the award,'' Small told the Champion.

``We have a good team at Cabramatta and even though we lost the grand final it all looks good for the future.''

The 28-year-old former Balmain Tigers player credits a new-found enjoyment of the game and his teammates for his stellar form in 2009, which was highlighted with man of the match performances in the preliminary and grand final.

``I'm keen to stay at Cabramatta,'' Cronulla-based Small said.

``This award is recognition that the club is moving in the right direction and I am really happy to be a part of it.

``I'm really looking forward to 2010.''

Cabramatta coach Len Stacker said his forward leader was a big reason for their success this season.

``Jamie has had an exceptional year,'' Stacker said.

``He is not only physically tough, but he is mentally strong, too.

``He is a rare player who plays at or close to his best every week and is unique in the fact he played every game this year and often played 80-minutes.''