Roosters Celebrate Historic Double at 2026 Jack Gibson Awards

Author: Sydney Roosters
Timestamp: Thu 8 Oct 2026, 10:12 AM

Naufahu Whyte and Tarryn Aiken took home the Club's top honours as the Roosters celebrated a historic NRL and NRLW premiership double at the 2026 Jack Gibson Medal Awards Night.

Two teams. Two trophies. One unforgettable season.

In a record-breaking year for the Sydney Roosters, the NRL and NRLW sides were crowned premiers, completing a premiership double that will stand among the greatest achievements in the Club's history.

On a night to remember, Naufahu Whyte and Tarryn Aiken claimed the Club's top individual honours as players, staff, partners and Members gathered for the 2026 Jack Gibson Medal Awards Night. Together the Club celebrated campaigns that has delivered something special for every Roosters fan, and recognised the people who made it possible, from the top grades through to the Club's pathways and the staff behind the scenes.

Whyte and Aiken lead the way

Naufahu Whyte was awarded the Jack Gibson Medal, the Club's highest honour, after an incredible season in the premiership-winning NRL side. The Roosters faithful agreed, voting Whyte the Red Rooster Members' Player of the Year.

Tarryn Aiken was named the KARI NRLW Player of the Year after a season defined by consistency and pure Roosters spirit, as she helped steer the NRLW side to the premiership.

NRL honours

Captain James Tedesco received the Sydney Roosters Community Impact Award. A long-time supporter of the Sporting Chance Cancer Foundation, Tedesco has helped raise funds for the James Tedesco Outreach Program, which supports children with cancer and their families. He is also an ambassador for Greyhounds As Pets NSW, promoting rehoming and responsible adoption.

Rex Bassingthwaighte claimed the Harry Phipps Rising Star Award after a strong debut season. Toby Rodwell was named NSW Cup Player of the Year, with his consistency across the year matched by his NRL debut.

Mark Nawaqanitawase enjoyed a big night. He won Try of the Year for his Round 14 effort against the Raiders, where Bobby set it up and Marky delivered. His teammates and staff also voted him the James Mathews Clubman of the Year for his extensive contributions on and off the field throughout 2026.

NRLW honours

Jessica Sergis was a double winner. Her teammates named her the NRLW Players' Player, a fitting honour for a player who embodies what it means to be a Rooster, while the Members voted her their Red Rooster Members' Player of the Year.

Sariah Paki was named NRLW Rookie of the Year after making a seamless switch to rugby league. The fans' vote for Try of the Year went to Otesa Pule for her unforgettable runaway try against the Bulldogs in Round 11.

Millie Elliott received the Sydney Roosters Community Impact Award. Through the Trainer Group Foundation, Elliott delivers free disability and wellbeing programs, creating inclusive opportunities for people of all abilities through workshops, five-week programs and regional outreach.

Francesca Faulkner was recognised with the Team Before Me Award.

Premiership pathways and Club honours

The Harvey Norman Women's Premiership side was well represented, with Majayda Darcy completing a double by claiming both the Best and Fairest and the Players' Player awards. Talea Tonga was named Best Back, Aaliyah Paki Best Forward and Tyra Dimock took home the Coaches Award.

In the men's pathways, exciting prospect Kade Maguire claimed the Arthur Beetson Medal as Jersey Flegg Player of the Year, and Carter Mareko was named the Chris Sykes Junior Representative Player of the Year.

Off the field, Ryan Chant received the MOCCA Award. Named in honour of Barry Van Heekeren, who gave 50 years of service to the Club as a coach, player, manager and administrator, the award recognises a staff member or official who goes above and beyond at all levels.

2026 NRL Sydney Roosters Award Winners

NRL