Both players were recognised for outstanding contributions during a demanding month of competition, producing performances that stood out across the men’s Investec Champions Cup and United Rugby Championship campaigns, and the women’s fixtures as they push for a place in the Celtic Challenge playoffs.
Men’s Award: Jack Dempsey
January proved to be a standout month for Jack Dempsey, whose relentless displays were instrumental in Glasgow’s perfect run of results.
The 31-year old was at his destructive best in Europe, scoring against Clermont Auvergne and tearing through Saracens’ defence to create opportunities for his teammates.
Dempsey’s form also earned wider recognition, with a nomination for Investec Player of the Year underlining just how influential his performances were during a month in which Glasgow topped the URC table heading into the international break.
“I’d like to thank the supporters for recognising me with this award,” the number eight told glasgowwarriors.org.
“It’s been a full team effort throughout our unbeaten run in both the URC and Europe, so I’m very grateful to the Warrior Nation for taking the time to vote for me.
“Everyone in the squad has been pushing each other on and continuing to drive our standards, because we know that we need to be at the top of our game every time we run out onto that field. The effort everyone has been putting in has been evident in our performances and our results, and we’re all keen to keep that run of momentum going.
“To be top of the league and unbeaten in Europe is great, but we know that we need to keep on pushing ourselves and keep on moving forward as we go into the closing stages of both competitions.”
Women’s Award: Gemma Bell
Gemma Bell takes home the women’s One Four Nine Wealth Warrior of the Month award after a series of consistently impressive performances during a challenging run of Celtic Challenge fixtures.
A near ever-present in the starting XV, Bell’s all-court game was a major factor as Glasgow Warriors Women went toe-to-toe with the strongest sides in the competition.
Her try against Gwalia Lightning at Scotstoun was a highlight, but it was her abrasive work both in attack and defence that caught the eye throughout January.
Bell’s performances epitomised the growth and resilience shown by Lindsey Smith’s side, as they continued to collect valuable bonus points and build momentum against top-three opposition.
“I’m very happy,” Bell told glasgowwarriors.org following the news of her award.
“I feel very thankful and very grateful for the people that have voted for me as I know how much effort everyone in the team puts out, week in, week out.
“I think the season has shown real growth. We’ve faced challenges, but we’ve responded together, which says a lot about the character in the team. Our focus has always been on collective progress, and I believe we’ve built something strong — a close-knit group that trusts one another and is committed to the same objectives.
“Personally, I’m happy with how I’ve gone so far and aspects of my game, but I’m always looking to build where I can. I’m focused on continuing to grow, staying consistent, and doing whatever is needed to help the team achieve our goals.
“Everyone in the squad is aligned with the objective of finishing the season strongly. We’re taking it game by game, staying disciplined, and maintaining our standards. The group is very motivated, and we believe that if we continue working together and performing at our best level, we can put ourselves in a strong position as we make a push for the playoffs.”
One Four Nine Wealth are the nationwide, independent Chartered Financial Planning arm of One Four Nine Group.