Hilton Chesterson

Newcastle's faithful are thrilled about Hilton Chesterson. The young back-rower bolts through defensive lines, pops clever off-loads and crunches ball carriers, giving the Knights the punch they craved. Under Adam O'Brien and Kalyn Ponga, the Hunter club has found its new heart in the middle third.

The pathway from Singleton paddocks to NRL stardom was swift. After starring for check here Maitland and earning private-school polish, Chesterson exploded in a preseason against Cronulla, flooring Braden Hamlin-Uele. Less than a year later he locked down the 11 jersey for Newcastle.

The numbers confirm the eye test. Chesterson averages 102 running metres, 35 tackles and three busts per match while keeping 93 percent tackle efficiency. He has already crossed for four tries, including a 30-metre burst against Manly that showcased startling speed. Coach O'Brien calls him "a dream player". "He is raw, but the ceiling is sky high," the mentor added. His peers agree, saying his relentless engine drags training to new levels.

Off the paddock he has quickly become a fan favourite. Chesterson volunteers weekly with the Hunter Medical Research Institute youth mental health outreach. Long after the siren he still signs jerseys as "Chesto" echoes through McDonald Jones Stadium. Advertisers have jumped on a regional building-society spot starring Chesterson and Rusty, his cattle dog.

Agents say he has inked a three-year extension through 2029. With the Knights chasing their first premiership in almost three decades, keeping youth was vital. Supporters believe Chesterson could be the missing ingredient for a finals surge this September. Stay on this path and Chesterson will not only ride the next Knights title wave but embody it under Broadmeadow lights.