The National Rugby League (NRL) is pleased to announce the grassroots award winners as part of the 2025 Community Awards, which celebrates the individuals who work tirelessly in the community to make rugby league the greatest game for all.
Established in 2007, the NRL Community Awards have become the most significant opportunity for our game's unsung heroes to receive the recognition they deserve for the tireless work they do in the community.
This year, two new categories were introduced; Match Official of the Year and Community Coach of the Year, acknowledging the vital role these individuals play in grassroots rugby league.
These join existing categories; Young Person of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Teacher of the Year, Women in League Award, Indigenous Community Award and Community Rugby League Club of the Year.
The NRL Community Awards also recognise two elite players who showcase an exceptional contribution off the field to community service. The Ken Stephen Medal – Man of the Year, and Veronica White Medal – Woman of the Year will be announced at the Dally M’s.
“As Australia’s first bank, Westpac is committed to making a positive impact in our communities,” Westpac Head of Sponsorships Pat Cunningham said.
“We are proud to partner with the NRL and support the NRL Community Awards - recognising the volunteers who help local rugby league to thrive in our communities. Congratulations to all of this year’s NRL Community Award recipients”.
Grassroots Rugby League is thriving across the country, with submissions received across every state and territory.
From regional towns to big cities, the passion for the game is clear. It’s a true reflection of the games national reach and the incredible individuals who help foster a positive and inclusive environment for all.
Congratulations to the 2025 award winners:
Young Person of the Year
Poppy O’Shea
A rising star and dedicated volunteer, Poppy exemplifies what it means to be a community champion in Rugby League. Beyond her playing career, Poppy has made a significant impact at Caboolture JRL, volunteering since 2022 in the club’s merchandise office to help keep fees low for participants.
She regularly gives back by sharing her skills with teammates, coaching younger players, and supporting multiple teams across age groups. From running kicking sessions and Leaguesafe duties to one-on-one development coaching, Poppy is a familiar and respected face throughout the club.
In 2025, she stepped into an assistant coaching role for the U13 Girls Squad and supported core skills development for the U11 Girls, continuing her commitment to nurturing the next generation of players.
Poppy is also a positive role model at Caboolture High, where she uplifts students facing challenges and fosters a strong sense of community among her peers. Her leadership extends beyond sport, creating a culture of care and connection that reflects the values of Rugby League.
Despite juggling a demanding schedule, Poppy remains focused, engaged and driven to make a difference. Poppy’s passion for Rugby League is matched only by her dedication to community. She is a future leader whose influence is already shaping the game for the better.
Volunteer of the Year
Roger Whyte
With more than 30 years of volunteer service, Roger has been a driving force in Rugby League Townsville & District (RLTD), contributing more than 30 hours a week across all levels of the game.
He led the unification of Townsville’s junior and senior competitions, strengthening governance and community connection. In 2024, Roger launched the Helping Hands Mentoring Program, supporting at-risk youth through Rugby League, in partnership with agencies like Queensland Police, NRL and Headspace.
Roger has championed access for Palm Island juniors, securing funding to remove financial barriers and enabling the historic inclusion of an Under 15 team in 2024. He has also driven female participation, introducing a dedicated Under 12 girls competition and expanding opportunities for Under 18s.
His commitment to equity extends to remote communities, personally sponsoring young players from Doomadgee, Mornington Island and Mt Isa to attend elite pathways like the RISE Remote Carnival.
Through his leadership, RLTD clubs received grants for sustainability, investment in grassroots and essential safety measures including Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) for all clubs.
Roger truly embodies the values of Rugby League and continues to make a difference for all involved in Rugby League Townsville & District.
Teacher of the Year
Jon Tucker
For more than a decade, Jon has been a passionate advocate for Rugby League in schools and the wider community. As the region’s first Platinum Teacher Ambassador, he sets the standard for educator involvement in the sport.
At Charles Conder School, Jon has gone above and beyond to ensure students of all abilities can participate. He runs after-school programs for K–2 students, coordinates All Abilities and Special Olympics Sporting Schools, and personally supervises sessions to ensure every child feels included and supported. Even while on personal leave, Jon continues to organise sporting activities remotely, ensuring his students never miss out.
Jon is a local league coach, actively involved in the Tackle Ready program, and serves as secretary and teacher contact for School Sport ACT. He regularly hosts NRL Canberra’s League Stars program, Raiders Blitz visits and supports media and player engagement at his school.
His commitment to inclusion is evident in his efforts to break down barriers to participation - especially for students who don’t play sport outside of school. At the Sullivan Shield Gala Day, Jon helped combine teams from different schools to ensure no student missed out.
Jon’s dedication, leadership and love for Rugby League continue to inspire students, families and fellow educators across the ACT.
Women in League Award
Danielle Spence
As a dedicated Club Official at West Cowra, Danielle has been a driving force in advancing opportunities for women in Rugby League. Through her grassroots initiative, the She Matters Movement, Danielle has led the transformation of West Cowra Recreation Ground into a more inclusive space for female athletes.
Recognising the lack of appropriate facilities, Danielle took action, personally fundraising, navigating local bureaucracy, and collaborating with council, Crown Land, and other stakeholders. Her efforts culminated in the opening of new female change rooms in April 2025, a milestone that has already improved the experience of women and girls in the sport.
Danielle’s journey has not been without challenges. She faced outdated infrastructure, resistance to change, and unsuccessful grant applications. But she remained undeterred, raising funds and joining the Council’s Sport and Recreation Committee to ensure women’s sport was represented in planning decisions.
Her leadership has inspired a cultural shift in her community. Danielle leads by example, showing that meaningful change begins at the grassroots level. She has united diverse groups around a shared vision, empowered others to advocate for inclusion, and created a legacy that will benefit future generations of female players.
Indigenous Community Award
Scott Mieni
A respected coach, mentor and changemaker, Scott Mieni has dedicated more than 30 years to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Rugby League. Through his culturally sensitive and passionate approach, Scott has coached First Nations teams across New South Wales, creating pathways for hundreds of Indigenous players to develop their skills, build self-belief and take pride in their cultural identity.
Scott’s impact goes beyond the field. He has led structural change within NSWRL, spearheading the development of culturally appropriate judiciary panels to ensure fairer outcomes for Indigenous players. This initiative has strengthened trust between First Nations communities and rugby league governance, setting a benchmark for reconciliation in sport.
A pioneer in women’s rugby league on the Mid North Coast, Scott has championed the inclusion and development of Aboriginal women and girls, driving increased participation and visibility in the game. His leadership has fostered a more inclusive and united rugby league community.
Despite the challenges that come with long-term advocacy, Scott remains a calm problem-solver, never burdened by obstacles and always focused on solutions.
Scott’s legacy lives on in every player he has mentored and his passion is not only admirable but infectious, inspiring those around him to grow and lead with purpose.
Community Rugby League Club of the Year
Karratha Kangaroos Junior Rugby League Club
Karratha Kangaroos Junior Rugby League (KKJRL) is a thriving community club in the Pilbara, known for its inclusive culture, innovative spirit, and unwavering commitment to creating opportunities for young players. In 2025, the club rebranded from Karratha Junior Rugby League, introducing a new mascot and identity that united all age groups under the 'Roos' banner - giving players a sense of pride and belonging.
Operating in the Pilbara region presents many challenges, but KKJRL meets these with creativity and care. This region is home to many FIFO families which decreases volunteer and player retention. However, with the implementation of offering flexible volunteer roles, late night training and support for families travelling up to 700km, KKJRL have turned their obstacles into opportunities, building a vibrant, welcoming environment for all.
The club’s impact is widely recognised, having received the City of Karratha Sporting Association of the Year, Dual Inclusion Award, and an Australia Day Active Citizenship Award.
Since 2020, Karratha Kangaroos JRLC has doubled in participation numbers, expanded its age groups, and proudly supports 25% female participation and 30% Indigenous participation - a reflection of its inclusive and community-first approach.
The club has also launched Development Tours to Perth for Under 12s and Girls League Tag teams, giving regional players access to elite pathways, cultural experiences and their first live NRL games. They continue to foster a strong sense of community through events like, Women in League Round, weekly BBQ dinners and hosting family-friendly State of Origin nights.
More than just a club, KKJRL is the heart of Rugby League in the Pilbara - where every child is welcomed, supported, and given the chance to grow through sport.
Community Coach of the Year
Matthew Simpson
With more than 10 years as an accredited coach, Matt has become a deeply respected figure at Sarina Junior Rugby League, known not only for his coaching ability but for the genuine care and connection he builds with every player. His approach is grounded in mateship - encouraging his team to support one another as teammates and friends, both on and off the field.
Matt’s players admire him for more than his game-day leadership. He creates a safe, inclusive environment where every child feels valued, heard and supported. Parents from Sarina and even opposing clubs consistently praise his ability to foster strong relationships and a culture of respect and unity.
Since 2016, Matt has gone above and beyond. stepping in to coach older age groups when needed, leading his team to a grand final in 2024, and always prioritising the wellbeing of his players. His support extends far beyond the field, helping kids navigate personal challenges, school and life decisions. When one player confided that he hadn’t received any birthday gifts, Matt quietly organised a celebration, using his own money and support from other parents to make sure the boy felt seen and valued.
Matt also contributes as a Leaguesafe volunteer, runs training sessions when others are unavailable, and serves as Vice President of both the junior and senior clubs. He has led youth clinics during school holidays and is actively pursuing further coaching roles with the RISE program and Schoolboys teams.
Matt’s coaching is about more than Rugby League, it’s about shaping confident, respectful young people. His influence reaches far beyond the scoreboard, leaving a lasting impact on every player he mentors.
Community Match Official of the Year
Alan Bain
For the past three seasons, Alan has been the driving force behind the transformation of officiating in Far North Queensland (FNQ). As the region’s officiating coordinator, Alan has led the integration of the FNQ Referees into the local league structure, taking on recruitment, education, appointments, compliance and coaching, all while continuing to officiate junior and senior matches himself.
Alan’s impact is felt across every level of the game. He mentors young referees, collaborates with junior leagues to develop club referees, and supports the delivery of the Beyond the Goal Posts program in schools. As a certified NRL course facilitator, he’s helped grow the refereeing community by encouraging players, coaches and volunteers to pick up the whistle.
His leadership is marked by fairness, empathy and innovation. Alan championed the Green Socks campaign to protect and support young referees and led the rollout of MySideline’s new match official appointments feature to improve efficiency and accessibility. Alan is renowned for recognising potential in others and guiding them with patience and care.
In a region facing referee shortages, Alan has delivered practical solutions - building club capacity, pairing new referees with experienced mentors and subsidising travel for officials to support community matches. His efforts ensure the game continues to run smoothly.
Quite simply, Rugby League in FNQ wouldn’t function without Alan. His dedication, leadership and love for the game continue to shape the future of officiating and inspire those around him.