The Super League's Young Player of the Year award is a prestigious honor, but what happens after the initial glory? Let's delve into the journeys of these young talents and explore their paths to greatness, or perhaps, unexpected turns.
2025: Harry Robertson, the Rising Star
Harry Robertson, the St Helens prodigy, claimed the 2025 award, showcasing his talent as a centre with 12 tries and five assists. He outshone his competitors, including Wigan's Junior Nsemba, Huddersfield's George Flanagan Jr., and Hull FC's Lewis Martin. Robertson's future looks bright, with potential international appearances on the horizon.
2024: Junior Nsemba, the Near-Repeat
Nsemba, the 2024 winner, was nominated again in the following season but couldn't secure a second victory. Despite this, he earned his England debut against Samoa at Headingley in the same year.
2023: Josh Thewlis, Stepping Up
The Warrington winger, Josh Thewlis, has become an integral part of the team, especially in the absence of Matty Ashton. He scored in the 2023 Challenge Cup Final, but it wasn't enough for a win.
2021 & 2022: Jack Welsby, the Double Winner
Jack Welsby, the St Helens fullback, is a regular for England. Despite recent setbacks, he's expected to reclaim his starting position. Welsby is one of two players to win consecutive awards and played a crucial role in Grand Final victories during his award-winning years.
2020: Harry Newman, Covid-Era Champion
Harry Newman secured the 2020 award, solidifying his role at Leeds. Unfortunately, a severe leg injury during his move to the Perth Bears cut his season short.
2019: Matty Lees, the Saints' Stalwart
Matty Lees, a long-serving Saint, celebrates his testimonial year in 2026. With nearly 200 appearances for the Red Vee, he's a club legend. His pre-season game against Castleford Tigers will be a highlight of the celebrations.
2018: Jake Trueman, the Journeyman
Jake Trueman, now at Wakefield, won the award with Castleford Tigers. Since then, he's played for Hull FC and returned to Trinity, featuring 18 times under Daryl Powell.
2017: Oliver Gildart, the NRL Explorer
Oliver Gildart, now at Hull KR, won while at Wigan. After an NRL stint, he returned to Super League in top form. His award-winning season saw him score 14 tries in 20 matches, forming a formidable partnership with Joe Burgess.
2016: Tom Johnstone, Overcoming Adversity
Tom Johnstone's 20 tries in 25 matches earned him the 2016 award. Injuries plagued his career, but a strong 2025 season led to an Ashes call-up. Returning to Wakefield from Catalans Dragons has revitalized his career.
2015: George Williams, the World Cup Veteran
George Williams debuted at Wigan aged 18 and has over 300 senior appearances. Since winning the award, he's played in two World Cups and earned 23 England caps. A potential return to the NRL with the Dolphins in 2027 is on the cards.
2014: Daryl Clark, the Double Award Winner
Daryl Clark's 2014 season was exceptional, winning both Young Player and Man of Steel awards. He led Castleford Tigers to a Challenge Cup Final and a play-off spot, earning his England debut. Now a Super League and international regular, he recently signed with St Helens until 2027.
2013: Ben Crooks, the Championship Explorer
Ben Crooks, now at Halifax in the Championship, played for Hull FC in 2013, scoring 20 tries in 22 matches. He later played for various clubs and spent a year in Australia with Wentworthville Magpies.
2012: Zak Hardaker, the Grand Final Winner
Zak Hardaker played every game for Leeds in 2012, winning the Grand Final against Warrington. He later won Man of Steel in 2015 and had a brief NRL stint. Off-field issues led to club changes, but he's now back to his best at Hull FC.
2011: Jonny Lomax, the One-Club Legend
Jonny Lomax, the St Helens veteran, has been loyal to his club, with 378 appearances. He's won multiple trophies and represented his nation 15 times.
2010: Sam Tomkins, the Double Trophy Winner
Sam Tomkins, the recently retired fullback, won the award in 2010 and 2009. A Wigan legend, he played over 200 games in two stints and finished his career at Catalans, winning Man of Steel and other accolades.
But here's the question: Do these awards truly predict long-term success? Are there any winners who didn't live up to the initial hype? Share your thoughts on these young stars and their diverse journeys in the comments below!
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