The National Rugby League (NRL) is pleased to announce Latrell Mitchell as the winner of the 2023 Ken Stephen Medal – Man of the Year, presented by Westpac for his outstanding community involvement.
The Rabbitohs fullback was confirmed as the winner as part of the NRL’s Dally M Awards night in Sydney at The Winx Stand, Royal Randwick Racecourse.
The Ken Stephen Medal – Man of the Year, presented by Westpac, is given to an NRL player who has not only achieved on the field but has gone above and beyond in committing time off the field to community projects such as charity work, youth development or community support.
A Taree Red Rovers junior, Mitchell is proud of his heritage and ensures that he is a positive example of inclusivity and unity for all. Stemming from his own humble upbringing, Mitchell has a particular focus on helping Indigenous communities, regional NSW, mental health and grass roots rugby league, and continues to give his all to anything he sets his mind to.
Mitchell has helped grass roots juniors, Indigenous and female teams achieve their dreams by making discrete financial donations, without the pursuit of public accolade, whilst also taking part in leadership and cultural camps such as the Liverpool Opportunity Hub, Nanga Mai Marri (Dream Big) program and Deadly Youth Mentoring Program.
Whether it is helping rural towns re-build after natural disasters, campaigning against online bullying, or becoming a mental health ambassador of the Goanna Academy, Mitchell’s passion and dedication ensure that he makes a significant difference on and off the field.
“Latrell is an incredible player, inspirational person and wonderful leader in the game,” NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said.
“Latrell has helped rural towns re-build after a natural disaster, campaigned against online bullying, become a mental health ambassador of the Goanna Academy. He dedicates his all to the community and has made a positive impact on many people’s lives."
The Ken Stephen Medal – Man of the Year is proudly supported by Westpac and forms part of the NRL Community Awards, which have become the most significant opportunity for our game’s unsung heroes to receive the recognition and thanks they deserve.
“At Westpac, we take great pride in our partnership with the NRL Community Awards and would like to congratulate this year’s Ken Stephen Medal recipient, Latrell Mitchell,” Westpac Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, Annabel Fribence said.
“Latrell is a player who not only excels on the field but also demonstrates a strong commitment beyond the game, as showcased through his support of grass roots and community programs.”
Mitchell is the 35th winner of the Ken Stephen Medal, with a host of worthy recipients receiving the prestigious award since Wayne Pearce won the inaugural medal in 1988.
Mitchell’s supporting charity and junior club will receive $3,500 as a result of him claiming the Ken Stephen Medal – Man of the Year, as well as an additional $2,500 split between his junior club and supporting charity after he also the fan vote.
All players named alongside Mitchell in the NRL Community Team of the Year will receive $1,000 for their junior club.