At the recent Dally M Awards gala, the Cronulla Sharks showcased their dominance in rugby league by securing three prestigious honors. Blayke Brailey received the NRL Dally M Hooker of the Year award, while his front-row teammate Addin Fonua-Blake was recognized as the Prop of the Year. In the women’s league, Ellie Johnston also earned the title of Dally M Prop of the Year, highlighting the Sharks’ strength across both competitions.
Brailey’s exceptional performance throughout the season culminated in a fifth-place finish on the Dally M Men’s Leaderboard. His contributions as acting captain towards the end of the year have led some commentators to predict his inclusion in the Kangaroos team, which will be announced next week.
The gala, held to honor the league’s best players, also celebrated James Tedesco from the Sydney Roosters and Tamika Upton of the Brisbane Broncos, who were crowned the overall winners of the 2025 Dally M Medal. Their achievements underscore a season filled with remarkable talent and fierce competition.
Highlights from the Dally M Awards Gala
The Dally M Awards serve as a benchmark for excellence in rugby league, recognizing the standout performers from both the National Rugby League (NRL) and the National Rugby League Women’s (NRLW). The evening featured a comprehensive awards ceremony, celebrating individual achievements and team successes.
For the NRL, the top awards included:
– Dally M Medal: James Tedesco (Sydney Roosters)
– Hooker of the Year: Blayke Brailey (Cronulla Sharks)
– Prop of the Year: Addin Fonua-Blake (Cronulla Sharks)
In the NRLW, the awards showcased the rising stars and established talents, with Ellie Johnston earning recognition as one of the league’s finest players.
This year’s awards highlighted not only individual excellence but also the collaborative effort of teams and players who have dedicated themselves to the sport. The Sharks’ success at the gala is a testament to their hard work and commitment throughout the season.
As the rugby league community looks ahead to future competitions, the achievements recognized at the Dally M Awards will serve as motivation for players and teams alike. The anticipation builds for the next season, where fans will undoubtedly witness more outstanding performances from both emerging and established players.
