Nathan Cleary has added to his already impressive rugby league resume by winning his second Brad Fittler Medal at a special ceremony in Sydney overnight.
Presented by 2026 coach Laurie Daley in front of 600 guests, the award adds to Cleary’s previous medal from 2020 and rewards his starring role in the Blues’ 2-1 series victory.
Cleary’s form also earned him the Wally Lewis Medal as player of the series from either state following a masterclass performance in the Suncorp Stadium decider.
He also topped off the night by securing the People’s Choice Award with over 50 per cent of the fan vote.
Meantime, NSW Blues Women’s back-rower Yasmin Meakes made history at the ceremony by claiming her first NSW Women’s Origin Player of the Series Award following a standout campaign.
Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images
NSWRL Chief Executive David Trodden celebrated the players achievements, highlighted by both the Blues men’s and women’s Origin series wins.
“The Brad Fittler Medal is a night where we celebrate the achievements of our administrators, officials, volunteers and players for the 2026 season,” NSWRL Chief Executive David Trodden said.
“This year has already been a memorable and successful season for NSWRL, with our men’s and women’s Origin teams both claiming their respective series, and participation records broken for a fourth consecutive season.
“I congratulate all the winners tonight for the positive contributions they have made in 2026 and wish all the teams still in the running for a premiership the best of luck for the finals.”
Hudson Young rounded out the major player honors by collecting his first True Blue Award.
The back-rower was recognised for embodying the team’s core values of trust, resilience, and culture after finishing the series with 115 tackles and averaging 117 running metres.
