The NRL Community Awards, proudly presented by Westpac, will in 2024 acknowledge the efforts of individuals and organisations within the Rugby League who exemplify the spirit of community.
Nominations for the awards are now open, providing an opportunity for individuals and organisations to share their stories and celebrate the unsung heroes of rugby league.
Since their inception in 2007, the awards have been the most significant opportunity for our game's unsung heroes to receive the appreciation they deserve, the NRL Community Awards.
From NRL and NRLW players to dedicated volunteers and advocates, these awards showcase the diverse and inspiring stories that reinforce rugby league as more than just a sport, but a community, highlighting the profound impact of individuals at both elite and grassroots levels.
The NRL Community Awards are an exciting acknowledgment of the tireless contributions made by thousands of ordinary people who make rugby league the greatest game for all.
“With the unwavering support of Westpac, these awards provide the opportunity to celebrate the volunteers, teachers and young leaders in our communities who continuously provide a fun and safe environment for those who love rugby league,” NRL Executive General Manager – Performance & Pathways Tain Drinkwater said.
“Once again, the 2024 Community Awards will also celebrate our elite players of the NRL and NRLW Telstra Premierships, connecting our vitals grassroots with our elite game. Together with Westpac, we look forward to sharing the amazing stories and demonstrated commitment of our volunteers in 2024.”
“All of us at Westpac love the NRL Community Awards because community is at the heart of everything we do,” Westpac Chief Brand & Marketing Officer Annabel Fribence said.
“These awards recognise the unsung heroes in the communities that we live and work in, helping grow and support rugby league at a local level.
“We’re so excited for this year’s awards, particularly as we announce Tahlulah Tillett, the 2023 Veronica White medallist, has been appointed a Westpac Ambassador who will carry on her fantastic work and shine a light on all the amazing volunteers out there!”
Through the Elite Awards, we commend NRL and NRLW players for their dedication to making a positive impact in the community and their unwavering commitment to community engagement. Past recipients of the Ken Stephen and Veronica White Awards, such as Trent Hodkinson, Joel Thompson, and Tahlulah Tillet, serve as exemplary role models who epitomise the essence of the Man and Woman of the Year.
The NRL Community Awards feature a range of categories designed to honour excellence and service within the rugby league community.
Elite Awards
- Ken Stephen Medal - Man of the Year: Celebrating the significant contributions of an NRL player to the community.
- Veronica White Medal - Woman of the Year: Celebrating the significant contributions of an NRLW player to the community.
Grassroots Awards
- Volunteer of the Year Award: Acknowledging a registered volunteer whose exceptional service has made a measurable difference in their community.
- Women in League Award: Presented to an advocate for the advancement and opportunity of women in rugby league.
- Young Person of the Year Award: Honouring a young person aged 12-24 who embodies the NRL's mission of using rugby league to enrich lives.
- Teacher of the Year: Recognising a teacher's exceptional support of rugby league through opportunities for student involvement.
- Indigenous Community Award: Celebrating an advocate for the growth of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation in rugby league.
- Community Club of the Year Award: Presented to a rugby league club that enhances participation and enjoyment within their community.
Winners will receive recognition and support from the NRL and Westpac, further amplifying their impact and contributions to the community.
For more information about the NRL Community Awards and to submit nominations, please visit HERE.