Nathan Cleary Secures First Dally M Medal Amidst Injury and Family Support

Penrith Panthers player Nathan Cleary has won his first Dally M Medal, the National Rugby League's highest individual honor, accepting the award remotely from his home as he recovers from a severe ankle injury. Cleary, 28, received 67 votes to secure the medal on Wednesday night, ahead of Braydon Trindall (53 votes) and teammate Dylan Edwards (52 votes). His father, Panthers coach Ivan Cleary, was present at the ceremony and was visibly emotional as his son accepted the award via live cross.

During his acceptance speech, Cleary expressed gratitude to his parents and family for their sacrifices. He mentioned he had been living at home while his own house was under renovation, attributing their care to his success this year. He also extended thanks to his partner, Mary Fowler, acknowledging the challenges of a long-distance relationship and her continued support.

Cleary underwent two surgeries on a shattered ankle sustained during a tackle by Newcastle Knights player Phoenix Crossland in a recent match. The tackle resulted in a double compound fracture to his left leg, and Crossland received a four-game suspension for the incident. Despite past injuries and suspensions that had previously hindered his pursuit of the award, Cleary played 23 games this season, contributing 29 try assists and playing a key role in Penrith's run to the preliminary final.

In other awards, Tamika Upton of the Brisbane Broncos claimed her third Dally M Medal for the NRLW player of the year, becoming the first woman to achieve this milestone. Upton finished with 55 votes, just two ahead of Raecene McGregor and eight ahead of Tarryn Aiken. She reflected on her journey from playing at a young age when women's professional rugby league was not an option, to now being a three-time winner.

Former South Sydney Rabbitohs player Jai Arrow was honored with the Peter Frilingos headline moment of the year and the Provan-Summons Medal for embodying the spirit of the game. Arrow made the difficult decision to retire from NRL earlier this year after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease. He attended the ceremony with his wife, Berina Colakovic, and received a standing ovation.

ARL Executive Chairman Peter V'landys commented on the success of the 2026 season, noting record attendances and viewership. He praised the players for their skill, courage, and competition throughout the season and congratulated all the winners for their exceptional achievements.

The 2026 season will conclude with the Grand Final on Sunday, featuring the Sydney Roosters against the Newcastle Knights at Accor Stadium.