He’s making a name for himself with the Newcastle Knights this season.
And, Dylan Lucas is doing likewise off the field, too.
The gifted second-rower, who was named the club’s Rookie of the Year in 2023, will vie for the prestigious Ken Stephen Medal.
Celebrating its 36th edition, the accolade recognises the efforts of a NRL player who’s committed time away from the game to selflessly assist others through charity work, youth development and/or community support.
Lucas is Newcastle’s official nomination.
A proud Wiradjuri man, he’s dedicated to impacting community.
His commitment is evident in various Knights initiatives, such as participating in the club’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) launch in November to foster cultural awareness and unity among his peers.
The 23-year-old was also heavily involved in the NRL School to Work (S2W) program, including events like the SEWB on Country Day and Knights Youth Summit Presentation, which underscores his passion to youth empowerment.
He participated in the Knights School Blitz, delivering educational sessions to local schools, as well as visiting the John Hunter Children’s Hospital to spread cheer among young patients.
Lucas led the Cultural Choice ‘Boots for Brighter Futures’ initiative at Newcastle, too, organising the painting of players’ boots for the club’s Indigenous Round.
His participation in the Proud Boys program by NSW Police further exemplifies his commitment to at-risk youth, sharing his personal experiences to inspire the youngsters.
He’ll go ahead-to-head with the likes of Reece Walsh (Broncos), Josh Papalii (Raiders), Toby Sexton (Bulldogs), Nicho Hynes (Sharks), Tom Gilbert (Dolphins), Brian Kelly (Titans), Jake Trbojevic (Sea Eagles), Young Tonumaipea (Storm), Tohu Harris (Warriors), Reuben Cotter (Cowboys), Shaun Lane (Eels), Luke Garner (Panthers), Ben Lovett (Rabbitohs), Jacob Liddle (Dragons), Connor Watson (Roosters) and Jahream Bula (Tigers) for the Ken Stephen Medal.
The winner will follow in the footsteps of Wayne Pearce, Ryan James, Joel Thompson, Jonathan Thurston, Sia Soliola, Nathan Hindmarsh, Ronaldo Mulitalo and 2023 recipient Latrell Mitchell.
Fans can vote for their favourite player at https://www.nrl.com/community/awards/ken-stephen-medal by 1 July.
Meanwhile, Lucas is preparing to face the Parramatta Eels at McDonald Jones Stadium on Saturday 29 June.
The round 17 fixture also features the debut of Will Pryce, who’ll partner Jackson Hastings in the halves.
Newcastle Knights v Parramatta Eels
5.30pm: Saturday 29 June (McDonald Jones Stadium)
- Newcastle Knights: 1. Fletcher Sharpe, 2. Enari Tuala, 3. Dane Gagai, 4. Bradman Best, 5. Greg Marzhew, 6. Will Pryce, 7. Jackson Hastings, 8. Jacob Saifiti, 9. Phoenix Crossland, 10. Leo Thompson, 11. Tyson Frizell (c), 12. Dylan Lucas, 13. Adam Elliott; interchange: 14. Jayden Brailey (c), 15. Daniel Saifiti, 16. Kai Pearce-Paul, 17. Brodie Jones; extended bench: 18. Mat Croker, 19. Jack Hetherington, 20. Jack Cogger, 21. Krystian Mapapalangi, 22. David Armstrong
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