NRL announce national grassroots winners for 2026 Community Awards

The National Rugby League (NRL) has unveiled this year's grassroots award winners as part of the NRL Community Awards presented by Westpac.

The awards highlight and celebrate the individuals who work tirelessly in the community and the clubs who help to make rugby league the greatest game for all.

Whether it is helping others achieve their dreams or just making sure there is a safe space for young players to have fun with their friends, the game would not be what it is without the hard work of people like this year's award winners. 

Established in 2007, the NRL Community Awards have become an important opportunity to give thanks to some of our game's unsung heroes, providing them  with the recognition they deserve for the often unseen, but always appreciated, work they do in the community.

This year, awards were given in the following categories: Match Official of the Year, Community Coach of the Year, 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.

NRL General Manager of Participation Strategy and Growth Dylan Hides congratulated all of the 2026 NRL Grassroots Community Award winners.

"Across our eight grassroots categories, these recipients represent the very best of what makes our game special," Mr Hides said.

"Their dedication both on and off the field continues to set the standard for volunteers, coaches, officials and young leaders in communities nationwide.

"Since 2007, the NRL Community Awards have given us the chance to shine a light on the unsung heroes who keep rugby league thriving at the grassroots level, while also celebrating how our NRL and NRLW players give back to the communities that support them.

"None of this would be possible without the ongoing support of Westpac.

"We're proud to continue this partnership and honour the people who make rugby league the greatest game for all."

Westpac were proud to support the special initiative. 

“Grassroots sport has the power to shape lives, but it only happens because of the people who give so much of themselves to support their communities,” Westpac's Head of Media & Strategic Partnerships Leo Roberts said.

“This year's winners represent the thousands of volunteers across Australia who help local clubs thrive.

"Their commitment helps create opportunities for young people, brings communities together and makes grassroots sport a place where everyone can feel they belong.

"We're proud to recognise their efforts and celebrate the impact they have on the people around them.”

The NRL Community Awards will 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 Ms awards during grand final week.

Congratulations to the 2026 NRL Community Awards presented by Westpac award winners who are listed below. 

NRL Volunteer of the Year

Kevin Whitford – Milton / Ulladulla Bulldogs

For more than three decades, Kevin Whitford has been a driving force behind grassroots rugby league on the South Coast. Through numerous leadership roles, significant contributions to participation growth, the development of female pathways and referee programs and an unwavering commitment to community rugby league, Kevin has helped shape a stronger, more inclusive and sustainable game for thousands of players and volunteers.

NRL Community Coach of the Year

Tolson Loram – North Rockhampton JRL

A coach whose impact extends far beyond the field, Tolson Loram is recognised for his exceptional care, leadership and dedication to player wellbeing. Whether supporting boarding school students, assisting injured players or uniting teams into a successful grand final campaign, Tolson consistently goes above and beyond to create a positive, inclusive and supportive rugby league environment.

NRL Community Rugby League Club of the Year

Ellenbrook Rabbitohs Rugby League Club

The Ellenbrook Rabbitohs have been recognised for their outstanding commitment to community rugby league through a strong culture of participation, inclusion and development. By creating positive experiences for players, volunteers and families, the club continues to strengthen community connections while providing opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy the game.

NRL Community Match Official of the Year

Ricky Liddle – Northern Territory Rugby League

A passionate advocate for officiating in the Northern Territory, Ricky Liddle has played a pivotal role in strengthening the referee community through leadership, mentoring and development. His commitment to supporting match officials, improving recruitment and retention, and achieving NRL Chief Match Official accreditation has helped ensure safe, fair and sustainable rugby league competitions across the Territory.

NRL Women in League Award

Tiana Horswood – Chinchilla Bulldogs

As Club President of Chinchilla Rugby League Football Club, Tiana Horswood has transformed opportunities for women and girls in regional Queensland. Through her leadership, she has established sustainable female pathways, grown participation to more than 80 registered female players and removed barriers that often prevent young women from participating. Her dedication has helped create an inclusive environment where female rugby league can thrive.

NRL Indigenous Community Award

Rothana Baira – Townsville Blackhawks

A respected mentor, cultural advisor and community leader, Rothana Baira has created safe, empowering and culturally connected environments for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and girls through rugby league. Through her work with families, clubs and communities, Rothana has strengthened participation pathways, enhanced cultural understanding and supported the personal development of countless Indigenous players across North Queensland.

NRL Young Person of the Year

Abbey Cox – Mt Isa Junior Rugby League

An inspiring leader from Mount Isa, Abbey Cox has helped transform girls' rugby league in her community, growing participation and securing the future of the local female competition. Balancing roles as a player, referee, touch judge and volunteer, Abbey demonstrates exceptional dedication, resilience and leadership, inspiring more young people to become involved in rugby league across regional Queensland.

NRL Teacher of the Year

Richard Thom – East Torrens Public School, South Australia

For 17 years, Richard Thom has used rugby league as a powerful tool to engage, educate and inspire young people. As a Gold Level NRL Schools Ambassador, he has created inclusive participation opportunities, integrated rugby league into classroom learning and developed strong pathways from school programs into community clubs. His commitment has enriched the lives of countless students while helping grow the game throughout South Australia.