Oxford Cheetahs skipper Scott Nicholls was named Rider of The Year at the World Speedway Riders’ Association Awards, while Oxford team manager Peter Schroeck also picked up a major honour.

Schroeck was named Team Manager of The Year at the awards night in Leicester which saw Oxford Speedway legend Hans Nielsen in attendance as the guest of honour.

The Danish superstar, who won four World Championships, including three while he was an Oxford Cheetah, was presented with a Lifetime Achievement award.

Schroeck did not miss a single meeting as team manager in 2024 as he led Oxford Speedway's three teams - Oxford Spires, Oxford Cheetahs, and Oxford Chargers.

Peter Schroeck (left)Peter Schroeck (left) (Image: Steve Edmunds) In total, including the Championship Pairs and an abandoned meeting against Ipswich, he was team manager on 66 occasions.

He said: "It was a massive step as a club for Oxford to run at all three levels.

"But we made it work and we're making the same commitment in 2025.

“It was a shame when the injuries came at the end of the season and the Cheetahs missed out on the silverware. But there were so many highlights across the season.

“I did a lot of miles across the country during the season to manage the three sides, but it was worth it."

Schroeck was praised for the opportunities he gave to youngsters in the Oxford set-up.

He added: “From a personal viewpoint, it’s always very satisfying when one of the youngsters comes through.

“There’s a real chance for youngsters to see their career path through the sport at Oxford."

Nicholls, despite turning 46 during the course of the year, was one of the best riders in the Cab Direct Championship, and also scored heavily when called upon to guest in the ROWE Motor Oil Premiership.

Oxford Cheetahs captain Scott NichollsOxford Cheetahs captain Scott Nicholls (Image: Steve Edmunds) As skipper, the seven-time British Champion led the Oxford Cheetahs to the final in both the Cab Direct Championship and the Cab Direct Knockout Cup.

He said: "It’s a huge honour to win the Rider Of The Year award.

"There are not many sports like speedway, where there is a huge support network existing between riders, sponsors and the fans. It is a large family.

"I had an enjoyable season, even if I ended it with a shoulder injury.

"You can’t beat experience, and I wish I knew what I do know when I started racing.

“I believe the Cheetahs could have gone all the way this season, barring the injuries we sustained. But that’s speedway and hats off to Poole for winning the league.”