Hawkins in the shortlist for prestigious Wheels of Steel trophy
After helping Halifax Panthers achieve the treble for the second successive season, Rob Hawkins is in contention for the 2026 Wheels of Steel trophy, which will be presented at the Rugby League Awards night next week.
Hawkins, Joe Coyd of London Roosters and Tristan Norfolk of Leeds Rhinos are all nominated for the sport’s most prestigious award after three stellar individual seasons.
Hawkins capped off the regular season by reaching a milestone 500 points for the Panthers, who clinched back-to-back trebles by winning last weekend’s Grand Final.
Coyd, the reigning Wheels of Steel Winner and England stalwart, led the Roosters to both finals in 2025 and to the 2026 semi-finals alongside co-coach Lewis King.
He was instrumental in the England Wheelchair Ashes series last autumn, scoring the winning try against Australia’s Wheelaroos that secured their 2-0 victory; a feat he’ll be hoping to repeat as the squad head down under next month for the World Cup.
The shortlist is completed by Norfolk who joined the Rhinos in 2025 after making the switch from his home side of Hull FC. He has been a key part of their successes that have followed.
Also representing the Roosters amongst the awards is Max Owen who has been named Young Player of the Year after an exciting season. The Scottish international made his team debut in July last year and has continued to impress with his dedication and skill.
The final award is for Coach of the Year which has been awarded to Martyn Gill from Edinburgh Giants. The Giants made history last season as the first Scottish side to join the top-flight and have made significant progress during their 2026 campaign.
Owen and Gill will receive their awards on September 29 when the winner of the Wheels of Steel award will be announced.
The award winners and shortlisted players have been decided by the RFL’s Wheelchair Management Committee.