The nib Newcastle Knights pathways systems continue to produce high quality products, with another three talented youngsters re-signed and promoted into the club’s National Rugby League top squad, on the back of NSW Cup debuts and NSW U19 selection this year.
Cody Hopwood, 18, signed a new contract to remain a Newcastle Knight until at least the end of 2028, after being named Player of the Tournament and gaining selection in the Australian Schoolboys for the second time in July, along with making his NSW Cup debut a month later.
nib Newcastle Director of Football Peter Parr is exciting about the young forward’s potential.
“Cody is mature beyond his years and will be an NRL player over time," Parr said.
“He has all the characteristics you want in a player, both on and off the field.”
Jermaine McEwen, 19, is another forward who has progressed rapidly through the Knights pathways systems and represented NSW U19s for the second time this year.
McEwen will move into the Club’s NRL top 30 next season, signing a three-year deal to remain a Knight until the end of 2027.
“Jermaine is a dynamic player who has handled every step up in his career thus far," Parr said.
“He has an exciting future and we look forward to his ongoing development in coming years.”
Connor Votano, an 18-year-old athletic fullback who played on the wing for NSW U19s, will join the NRL Development list in 2025, after progressing from the Knights SG Ball team into NSW Cup this season.
“Connor is a wonderful prospect, with great skills," Parr said.
“He can play a variety of positions and the NRL beckons down the track.”
