NRL supporters and fellow players are celebrating Nathan Cleary after the Panthers star secured the Brad Fittler Medal for NSW State of Origin player of the year on Monday night. The event took place at The Star in Sydney, where the men's and women's NSW Blues players showcased their achievements alongside their partners.
Cleary and Yasmin Meakes were both recognized as the top NSW players in Origin this year. Cleary also received the people's choice award, earning over 50 percent of the fan vote for NSW's most valuable player in the 2-1 series victory against Queensland.
This marks Cleary's first time winning the Brad Fittler Medal, adding to his collection of four premierships and two Clive Churchill medals. He is also favored to secure his first Dally M medal this year, completing his impressive trophy collection.
Historically, critics have pointed out that Cleary hadn't truly dominated a State of Origin series for NSW. However, with this year's series win and the Brad Fittler Medal, he has shifted that perspective.
"It was definitely a rollercoaster of a series," Cleary remarked on Monday night. "The first game was pretty epic, the second a disaster, and the third a dream come true. I still have to pinch myself and it's lifelong memories you never forget."
Cleary and NSWRL chief Dave Trodden both acknowledged Laurie Daley after his recent departure as coach. "Loz has made a massive contribution to the organization as a captain and coach. He's never had a more challenging time than he has this year," Trodden stated on stage.
An emotional Meakes claimed the Katrina Fanning Medal as player of the women's series following a tough few months. She faced the loss of her mother in July and a ruptured ACL during Round 3 of the NRLW season.
"It's probably been one of the hardest months of my life after Origin," Meakes shared. "I am super lucky these girls aren't just football mates; they are best friends I get to play with every week. And when some of the toughest days of my life have been coming, they all show up."
Fans took to social media to congratulate Cleary, Meakes, and all the award recipients on Monday night.