The 2015 season saw the rise of a number of talented players at the Newcastle Knights.
The season has provided an exciting opportunity for many of the Club's NRL newcomers to gain expereince on the big stage where they have developed as players.
JAKE MAMO
Mamo has quickly captured attention with his flashy, entertaining style of football and boundless energy and has earned the vote of many of his teammates as the most improved player in 2015. The 21-year-old played nine games in first grade and scored four dazzling tries, and who can forget that super-man inspired try assist in Round 15?
What the players say:
“He was a flighty young winger last year and had a few things he had to work out, but it just shows hard work pays off. He was one of our best at the back end of the season." - Clint Newton
“He went from having a few games last year and not knowing his role at times to really looking at cementing a spot in the first grade side. He’s certainly the most improved.” - James McManus
“He’s really improved a lot…especially at fullback, it’s a really important job as part of the spine with the halves and the hooker." - Sione Mata’utia
TYLER RANDELL
Randell burst onto the scene in an unconventional debut in in Round 25 in 2014 and has gone on to play 20 games in first grade during the 2015 season. His versatility and cool head under pressure has seen him emerge as one of the side’s dependable mainstays and has surprised many with his speed, intuitive timing and skill.
What the players say:
“The most improved player for me was Tyler Randell. This year he played almost every game and he just keeps on keeping on." - Jeremy Smith
“He’s played really well in a couple of positions this year and has handled it really well." - Korbin Sims
“Him being put in the position he has this year where he’s had to play out of position it’s highlighted his ability to fill different roles. His athletic ability as well, a few times he’s found a bit of open space people realized he has a bit of speed about him” - Robbie Rochow
SIONE MATA'UTIA
Mata'utia has built on a stellar start to career, which featured a green and gold jersey in 2014, by cementing a starting spot as one of the Knights’ most dynamic outside back. The 19-year-old also earns a special mention from his teammates and is touted as one of the team’s top performers of 2015.
What the players say:
“Sione had a bit of a rough start this year, but by the end of the season he would have been the most improved. He’s was one of our best in the second half of the season and he’s worked hard for that definitely.” - Dane Gagai
