Jahrome Hughes and Olivia Kernick Shine at Dally M Awards Ceremony

Melbourne Storm‘s halfback Jahrome Hughes clinched the prestigious 2024 Dally M Medal in a nail-biting finish, edging out Sydney Roosters captain James Tedesco by just one point. The thrilling conclusion saw both players garner maximum votes in their respective Round 27 fixtures of the NRL Telstra Premiership, highlighting their outstanding performances during the season.

In a parallel triumph, the Dally M Female Player of the Year honor was awarded to Roosters forward Olivia Kernick. Her consistent excellence earned her 22 points, narrowly outscoring Parramatta Eels’ Abbi Church and Gold Coast Titans‘ Lauren Brown, both of whom tied at 20 points. The awards were part of a spectacular ceremony held at the Winx Stand, Royal Randwick Racecourse.

“Season 2024 has been a year worthy of celebration,” commented Andrew Abdo, CEO of the NRL. “The exceptional performances and captivating storylines throughout the year were made possible thanks to the incredible efforts of players, coaches, officials, and fans. Tonight, we celebrate their contributions to the sport and their communities.”

Both NRL Grand Finalists had multiple players in the Dally M Team of the Year. Hughes further cemented his reputation by being named Halfback of the Year, while teammate Harry Grant was honored as Hooker of the Year. Meanwhile, Eliesa Katoa received recognition as Second-Rower of the Year. The Penrith Panthers also made their mark, with Brian To’o and Isaah Yeo selected as Winger and Lock of the Year, respectively. Melbourne Storm’s Craig Bellamy received the accolade of Coach of the Year.

Stephen Crichton of the Bulldogs was celebrated as Dally M Captain of the Year, recognizing his role in the team’s resurgence. The Dally M Rookie of the Year award went to Dolphins’ Jack Bostock. In one of the ceremony’s highlights, Storm winger Xavier Coates was awarded both the Dally M Try of the Year and the Peter Frilingos Headline Moment for his incredible effort against the Warriors in Round 2.

Sydney Roosters also showed their prowess in the women’s league, securing four spots in the NRLW Dally M Team of the Year ahead of their Grand Final clash against the Sharks. Highlighted players included Isabelle Kelly, Millie Elliott, Keeley Davis, and Olivia Kernick.

Leading the charge for the Sharks, Tiana Penitani won double honors – Dally M Centre of the Year and Dally M Captain of the Year, sharing the spotlight with other leading players of the women’s league.

The Men’s Dally M leaderboard concluded with Jahrome Hughes at 62 points, with James Tedesco close behind at 61. Daly Cherry-Evans placed third with 51 points, followed by several other notable players including Tom Trbojevic, Scott Drinkwater, and Isaah Yeo.

In the Women’s league, Kernick topped the leaderboard, with Church and Brown close contenders in a highly competitive season. The awards reflect a significant year for women’s rugby league, illustrating its increasing prominence and talent depth.