Most people only see their efforts on the field, but for many NRL players their off-field dedication to making a difference within the community is also of a high standard.
The winner of the 2018 Ken Stephen Medal will be crowned at this years' Dally M Awards. It will be a reward for positive contribution made in the community through charity work, youth development or other community initiatives.
All but two NRL clubs have nominated a player for the work they have done over the last 12 months.
NRL Head of Government and Community Relations, Jaymes Boland-Rudder is proud to see our players not only impacting people on the field but more importantly off it.
"As a sport, we have a powerful voice and an even greater opportunity for everyone involved to continue to look out for one another, support each other when times are tough, and ensure that together, our communities are prosperous," Boland-Rudder said.
"These nominees are just some of the many players within clubs and communities that lend a helping hand where and when they can to all number of charities, hospitals and others in need.
"Many of the stories and acts of kindness go unnoticed and untold, although we regularly hear from members of the public about a player taking time out to give back and make a difference for the better."
In previous years, Sam Tagataese, Trent Hodkinson, Jonathan Thurston, Sam Thaiday, Nathan Hindmarsh and Preston Campbell have been celebrated as winners of the medal.
The nominees for the 2018 award are: Darius Boyd, Sam Williams, Adam Elliot, Edrick Lee, Ryan James, Joel Thompson, Christian Welch, Kalyn Ponga, Jake Granville, Cameron King, Trent Merrin, Matty Dufty, Latrell Mitchell and Josh Aloiai.
Click here, for more information on the Ken Stephen Medal and pan66.community Awards.
This year's Ken Stephen Medal is proudly supported by P & O Cruises and SkillsRoad, via the New South Wales Business Chamber.