Dane Gagai crowned Danny Buderus Medal winner for 2024
Newcastle Knights centre Dane Gagai has taken home the three major honours including the Danny Buderus Medal for Player of the Year following a stellar season in 2024.
In his ninth season at the Club, Gagai was one of the Knights most consistent and reliable over the course of the campaign playing in 22 games during the season.
The outside-back has played 192 games for the Club and claimed the Player of the Year Award along with the NRL Players’ Player award and Knights Gladiator of the Year award, presented by the Once A Knight Old Boys.
In 2024, Dane scored eight tries, broke through 143 tackles, averaged 147 run metres combined with his renowned tenaciousness and competitive streak.
Gagai spoke after receiving the award from Danny Buderus and Head Coach Adam O’Brien.
The 2024 Awards night, held at NEX Newcastle, also saw a host of other award winners announced.
Following an outstanding breakout season, Fletcher Sharpe claimed the Rookie of the Year award.
Dylan Lucas took home the Community Player of the Year award for his outstanding involvement in community initiatives and programs throughout the season.
The Knight in Shining Armour award was won by Tyson Frizell following his heroic chase on Melbourne Storm players Tyran Wishart and Ryan Papenhuyzen back in Round 3.
In the senior pathways grades, Tom Cant was named NSW Cup Player of the Year while Jaxson Rahme picked up the Players’ Player award.
Also, in the Jersey Flegg Cup, Jack Cullen was presented the Player of the Year award for the second year in a row in the Under 21’s competition while Fletcher Hunt was awarded Players’ Player.
A big thank you to all the players, staff, sponsors, members and supporters for another huge season for the Newcastle Knights.
Award Winners:
Player of the Year (Danny Buderus Medal) – Dane Gagai
NRL Players’ Player – Dane Gagai
Gladiator of the Year – Dane Gagai
NRL Rookie of the Year – Fletcher Sharpe
Community Player of the Year – Dylan Lucas
Knight in Shining Armour – Tyson Frizell
NSW Cup Player of the Year – Tom Cant
NSW Cup Players’ Player – Jaxson Rahme
Jersey Flegg Cup Player of the Year – Jack Cullen
Jersey Flegg Cup Players’ Player – Fletcher Hunt