The nib Newcastle Knights are proud to announce Jacob Saifiti as the winner of the 2025 Danny Buderus Medal, recognising the Club’s NRL Player of the Year.

It’s the second time J-Saf has taken home the medal for Player of the Year after claiming the award in 2021.

A leader both on and off the field, the one-club player has notched 174 first grade games at the Knights.

Saifiti was honoured to receive the award at the Knights annual awards evening.

“Very grateful to receive this award,” Saifiti said.

“Firstly, I want to thank my wife and thank everyone at the Club.”

The 2025 Awards night, held at NEX Newcastle, also saw a host of other award winners announced.

For the second consecutive year, Dane Gagai was recognised by his teammates with the Player’s Player award.

The Gladiator of the Year award, chosen by the Once A Knight Old Boys, was awarded to Fletcher Sharpe.

Dylan Lucas took home the Community Player of the Year award for the second straight season for his continued involvement in community initiatives such as the Boots for Brighter Futures and Ronald McDonald House charities.

The Knight in Shining Armour award, highlighting a significant moment in the season, was won by Brodie Jones following his last-minute winning try against the Dolphins in Round 16.

Jermaine McEwen showcased his potential in 2025 and claimed the Rookie of the Year award.

In the senior pathways grades, Mason Teague was named NSW Cup Player of the Year while Francis Manuleleua picked up the Players’ Player award.

Also, in the Jersey Flegg Cup, Kane Graham was presented the Player of the Year award in the Under 21’s competition while Jacob Taulani was awarded Players’ Player.

A big thank you to all the players, staff, sponsors, members and supporters for another season at the Newcastle Knights.

Award Winners:

Player of the Year (Danny Buderus Medal) – Jacob Saifiti

NRL Players’ Player – Dane Gagai

Gladiator of the Year – Fletcher Sharpe

NRL Rookie of the Year – Jermaine McEwen

Community Player of the Year – Dylan Lucas

Knight in Shining Armour – Brodie Jones

NSW Cup Player of the Year – Mason Teague

NSW Cup Players’ Player – Francis Manuleleua

Jersey Flegg Cup Player of the Year – Kane Graham

Jersey Flegg Cup Players’ Player – Jacob Taulani

Kilpatrick Club Person of the Year – Jake Harris (Group Community Impact Manager)