LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Rugby League Players Association (RLPA) has officially named Mark Nawaqanitawase as the 2025 Rookie of the Year. This accolade comes despite his ineligibility for the Dally M version of the award due to a mid-season rule change, which disqualifies players with over five appearances in another code from rookie status. However, the RLPA maintains a different interpretation.
Nawaqanitawase, the Roosters winger, outperformed fellow finalists Leka Halasima, Isaiah Iongi, Savelio Tamale, and Robert Toia to clinch this award. His inaugural season in the NRL has been remarkable, highlighted by winning the prestigious Ken Irvine Medal for being the top try-scorer, finishing with an impressive 24 tries. His outstanding performances have captivated rugby league fans across the board.
With his contract set to expire at the end of 2026, there is likely to be significant competition among the Roosters, rugby union teams, and various rugby league clubs for Nawaqanitawase's long-term commitment.
Clint Newton, CEO of the RLPA, praised Nawaqanitawase's remarkable shift from the 15-man code to rugby league, stating, "On behalf of the RLPA, I would like to congratulate Mark Nawaqanitawase on being voted by the players as their Rookie of the Year for 2025."