Brenton Lawrence has been recognised for his tireless work within the community, earning a spot among 15 finalists for the 2014 Ken Stephen Medal.
This year’s nominees have been involved in everything from establishing programs supporting professional athletes studying at university to dedicating countless hours to children’s literacy programs and striving to stamp out bullying in schools across the country.
The medal has been won by Rugby League legends including Wayne Pearce, Paul Harragon, Nathan Hindmarsh, Hazem El Masri, David Peachey, Preston Campbell and Johnathan Thurston, to name a few.
Mr Check said players and One Community Ambassadors spent more than 30,000 hours working in their communities last year.
“We know clubs already dedicate a significant amount of time to the community but the nominees for the Ken Stephen Medal go above and beyond the call of duty - they are role models of the game,” he said.
“The NRL One Community Awards are also about recognising the contribution made by people in all areas of the game who work tirelessly to make Rugby League such a strong and diverse game.”
The winner will be announced at the One Community Awards held at Sydney’s Carriageworks on Thursday, 25 September. The NRL will recognise the community work made, not only by the players, but also local heroes from across the community.
Finalists for 2014 Ken Stephen Medal presented by Telstra are:
Club |
Finalist |
Brisbane Broncos |
Josh McGuire |
Canberra Raiders |
Joel Edwards |
Canterbury Bulldogs |
Trent Hodkinson |
Cronulla Sharks |
Michael Gordon |
Gold Coast Titans |
Ryan James |
North Queensland Cowboys |
Gavin Cooper |
Manly Warringah Sea Eagles |
Brenton Lawrence |
Melbourne Storm |
Matt Duffie |
Newcastle Knights |
Robbie Rochow |
New Zealand Warriors |
Manu Vatuvei |
Parramatta Eels |
Ben Smith |
Penrith Panthers |
Nigel Plum |
St George Illawarra Dragons |
Ben Creagh |
Sydney Roosters |
Anthony Minichiello |
Wests Tigers |
Dene Halatau |