Broncos star claims NRLW first with player of the year title
Nathan Cleary and Tamika Upton have both claimed their second RLPA player of the year awards as the latter prepares for a back-to-back charge at the NRLW title.
Cleary beat out Erin Clark, Herbie Farnworth, Haumole Olakau’atu and James Tedesco for his award, which was announced to the Panthers squad before the preliminary final last week.
Tamika Upton. NRL Imagery
The Panthers halfback last won the award in 2020 and becomes the third player to win multiple player of the year titles. James Tedesco and Johnathan Thurston have both won the award four times.
“The expectations on Nathan are always very high. But in 2026 he showed once again that he can carry that pressure and produce quality performance after quality performance,” RLPA chief executive Clint Newton said.
“Defined by his toughness as a halfback, Nathan’s all-round game has been astounding this year. Whether it be setting up tries or linebreaks, or his tactical and attacking kicking game, Nathan has been on another level in 2026.
“We proudly recognise Nathan Cleary as the Players’ Champion for 2026. He is a phenomenal and gifted player, a great leader and a quality human.
“... Lastly, I just want to send my thoughts to Nathan and his family after sustaining a brutal injury in the preliminary final. I wish you all the best in your recovery, and we know you will fight your way back on the playing field as soon as you can.”
For Upton, it’s her second consecutive player of the year award making her the first-ever two-time winner.
The Broncos fullback finished the regular season with 20 try assists, 20 line breaks and 20 line break assists. She was first in the league for the first two stats and equal first for the line break assists.
“It’s pretty special,” she said on Nine’s 100% Footy.
“Obviously, you go out there and battle a lot of these girls, and you can’t vote for your own teammates so I think with this award comes a bit of privilege.
“I respect the hell out of a lot of these girls and it’s nice to know that respect goes both ways.”
