Gold Training under-20s utility back Brian Kelly was recognised for his four-try performance for New South Wales under-20s State of Origin side by last night being named as the Blues’ under-20s state player of the year.
The 19-year-old, who recently signed a two-year agreement to remain at the Titans, received the award at the Brad Fittler Medal awards ceremony before 650 guests at the Star Event Centre in Sydney.
Kelly was outstanding in NSW’s 32-16 victory in the under-20s interstate clash, played as a curtain-raiser to the third and deciding Origin clash at Suncorp Stadium. He impressed judges with his performance, after not playing for over a month because of a knee injury, and attitude while in camp.
“I feel really humbled by the award and to be recognised by the NSW Rugby League, I certainly wasn’t expecting it,” he said.
“It was a great night and just a privilege to mix with so many people at the NSW Origin level and hear them talk about this year’s series and what they want to achieve.
“It has given me confidence and made me keener to rip into pre-season training with the NRL squad in November and try to go forward even further next season.”
Some of the award winners are:
Under-20s State Player of the Year |
Brian Kelly |
Gold Coast Titans |
Women’s Player of the Year |
Simaima Taufa |
PCYC Mount Druitt |
The Daily Telegraph People’s Choice Award |
Aaron Woods |
NSW VB Blues (Wests Tigers) |
True Blue Award |
Robbie Farah |
NSW VB Blues (Wests Tigers) |
Brad Fittler Medal |
Josh Dugan |
NSW VB Blues (St George Illawarrra Dragons) |
