✍️ Presentation Awards News ✍️
Nathan Cleary has added another major individual honour to his remarkable 2026 season after being named the winner of the Brad Fittler Medal at the 2026 NSW Rugby League awards ceremony in Sydney.
The Penrith Panthers and NSW Blues halfback claimed the prestigious award for the second time in his career, having previously won the Brad Fittler Medal in 2020. The latest recognition comes after a standout State of Origin campaign in which Cleary played a decisive role in helping NSW reclaim the series.
Cleary was one of the most influential players throughout the Blues’ 2026 Origin campaign. NSW ultimately secured a 2–1 series victory over Queensland, with Cleary producing his best performance when the pressure was at its highest in the deciding match at Suncorp Stadium.
The halfback scored two tries in the series decider as NSW defeated Queensland 30–12, helping the Blues produce a memorable victory on enemy territory. His performance also earned him the Wally Lewis Medal, recognising him as the best player across the entire State of Origin series.
Across the three matches, Cleary finished with three tries, three try assists, two line breaks and five tackle busts, while averaging 60 running metres per game. Those numbers reflected his influence with both the ball and his ability to create opportunities for his teammates.
His achievements did not stop there. Cleary also received The Daily Telegraph People’s Choice Award, collecting more than half of the votes from fans. The recognition demonstrates the strong connection he has built with NSW supporters following another memorable Origin campaign.
The Brad Fittler Medal ceremony was held at The Star Event Centre in Sydney, with more than 600 guests attending the event. A total of 21 awards were presented across NSW representative teams, senior and junior competitions, women’s rugby league, officials, administrators and community contributors.
Cleary’s victory places his name alongside some of the biggest stars in NSW rugby league history who have previously won the medal, including James Tedesco, Tom Trbojevic, Paul Gallen and Steve Menzies.
For Cleary, the award represents another reward for an outstanding season and another reminder of his importance to both the NSW Blues and Penrith Panthers.
A second Brad Fittler Medal, a Wally Lewis Medal and the People’s Choice Award — Nathan Cleary’s 2026 Origin campaign has officially become one to remember. 🥇💙
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