Lawrie takes home 2023 Dragons Medal

Author: Dragons.com.au dragons.com.au
Timestamp: Wed 6 Sep 2023, 02:10 PM

Blake Lawrie was named the 2023 Dragons Medal recipient at the club’s annual presentation night held at the WIN Entertainment Centre in Wollongong on Tuesday evening.

Former Dragons Medal winners Ben Creagh, Jason Nightingale, and Shaun Timmins were in attendance to congratulate Lawrie on his NRL Player of the Year nod.

The 26-year-old also received the Red V Members Player of the Year and the Community Involvement Award which epitomises his impact as a community leader both on and off the field.

Lawrie enjoyed a sensational season for the Dragons having appeared in 22 games and averaged a career-high 135 run metres per game whilst making 680 total tackles at 94 per cent efficiency.

Having proven himself as a respected voice amongst the group, Lawrie earnt the first captaincy nod of his career in Round 19 against the Raiders.

Blake Lawrie photographed with the Dragons Medal, the Red V Members Player of the Year Award, and the Community Involvement Award.

Whilst it was Lawrie who took home a few handfuls of silverware, a number of other players were recognised for their standout seasons.

Jack de Belin was awarded the Immortals Trophy for his outstanding commitment, dedication, and attitude in all aspects of his rugby league preparation, training, and performance.

Jack de Belin pictured with the Immortals Trophy.

The 32-year-old made 16 appearances this season for the Dragons averaging 115 run metres and making 691 tackles at 96 per cent efficiency whilst also earning a captaincy debut in Round 13 against newcomers the Dolphins.

The Geoff Selby Memorial Trophy for NRL Emerging Talent, which honours the former Dragon and Steeler who tragically passed away in 1989, was won by Toby Couchman.

Toby Couchman poses with the Geoff Selby Memorial Trophy.

A Thirroul Butchers junior, the 19-year-old made his NRL debut in the side’s season opener against the Titans and would go on to play 15 games scoring a pair of tries.

He was joined in the top grade by twin brother Ryan with the duo sharing the field for the first time at NRL level in Round 24 against the Rabbitohs in Cairns.

Alex Lobb was named the NSW Cup Player of the Year whilst Zane Musgrove earnt the NSW Cup Coach’s Award.

Ben Johnson took home the Paul McGregor Trophy for Jersey Flegg Cup Player of the Year whilst Tyrell Fuimaono was awarded the Mark Coyne Trophy for Career Development.

Scott Stewart was named the Club Person of the Year for his role in assisting players’ wellbeing and career advancement.

Ben Hunt and Jack de Belin were both recognised for reaching milestones this season.

Hunt played his 300th NRL game against the Cowboys in Round 11 whilst de Belin notched 200 NRL games - all for the Dragons - against the Warriors in Round 17.