It has been a breakout season for Nick Meaney, with the young fullback staking his claim on the number one jersey for the Reserve Grade Newcastle Knights.
The soon to be 20-year-old was awarded ISP’s Player of the Year at the Club’s presentation night on Thursday after taking out the NYC Player of the Year award last year.
“Very pleased, I was lucky enough to win it last year for the 20s and even happier to win it this year for ISP,” Meaney said.
“It has been a big step up coming to play with the older boys but I’ve enjoyed it all season long and we’re in the semis now so hopefully we can keep going.”
This year, Meaney’s hard work paid off with selection in the NSW Residents squad and he locked down number one in the NSW Under 20s side to play Queensland.
“They have been great experiences to go up to Brisbane both times and Suncorp Stadium for the Under 20s,” commented Meaney.
“It was unreal to get the win and it was a really good experience.”
The 19-year-old’s work on the field has also produced some impressive stats.
Meaney equalled 6th in the competition for try assists and 5th for tackles breaks.
“Stats tell one side of the story but there is a lot of things that go on behind the scenes that everyone doesn’t get to see on paper but pretty happy with that,” smiled Meaney.
And the hard work doesn’t stop there with Reserve Grade gearing up for a semi-finals clash with the New Zealand Warriors on Sunday.
“It is at 7 o’clock at night which is a bit different playing that late but the Warriors also have to deal with the time situation,” Meaney said.
“They are a very good team, a very big team so hopefully we are up for the challenge and we can get the win.
“The first grade season has come to an end and we get a few people back which helps us.”
The Knights encounter the Warriors at Kogarah on Sunday night, kick-off is 7.05pm.
