The Sydney Roosters proudly congratulate Club Chairman Nick Politis AM, who has been recognised by The University of Queensland (UQ) as a 2025 UQ Alumni Award winner for his outstanding contribution to rugby league, sports marketing and philanthropic contributions to community health and sport.
Politis was among 15 recipients honoured at UQ’s 2025 Alumni Awards, which celebrate graduates who have made an enduring impact in their chosen fields and communities around the world.
A Bachelor of Economics and Certificate in Provisional Accountancy graduate of UQ’s class of 1965, Politis was acknowledged for his “longstanding leadership in rugby league, sports marketing innovation and philanthropic contributions to community health and sport.”
A pioneering businessman and one of Australia’s most influential sporting administrators, Politis introduced the first-ever jersey sponsorship in Australian professional sport in 1976 – a landmark initiative that transformed the commercial model across all codes.
Since his appointment as Chairman of the Sydney Roosters in 1993, his leadership has guided the Club through a golden era of success, securing:
- Four NRL Premierships (2002, 2013, 2018, 2019)
- Five NRL Minor Premierships
- Four World Club Challenge titles
- Two NRLW Premierships (2021, 2024)
Politis has also played an instrumental role in the governance and evolution of the game through his service on the Australian Rugby League Board and NRL Partnership Committee.
I’m very proud to be named a 2025 UQ Alumni Award recipient
Nick Politis AM
Beyond the sport, his generosity and commitment to community health led to the establishment of the Nick Politis AM and Family Cancer Care and Research Initiative at St Vincent’s Hospital, supporting critical advancements in cancer treatment and research.
Reflecting on his university experience, Politis said his time at UQ helped shape his lifelong approach to leadership and innovation.
“I’m very proud to be named a 2025 UQ Alumni Award recipient,” said Politis.
“I completed my studies 60 years ago, but a UQ memory that shaped who I am today is the collaboration – working in groups and sharing ideas with people of diverse backgrounds.
“It helped develop my critical thinking skills and taught me to analyse, question and look at problems from different angles to find solutions,” he added.
Sydney Roosters CEO Joe Kelly said the recognition was a fitting acknowledgment of Politis’ vision and influence.
“Nick’s leadership has not only defined the Sydney Roosters but has helped shape the modern sporting landscape in Australia,” said Kelly.
“His drive for excellence, innovation and community impact continues to inspire everyone connected with our Club,” he added.
The 2025 UQ Alumni Awards were announced at a ceremony on Wednesday, 22 October, with recipients recognised across fields including sport, business, education, and community impact.
