Recently, forum members have debated the NZ Warriors' Player of the Year, with Erin Clark and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck RTS emerging as frontrunners. Defence #1 initially framed the discussion as a "shootout" between the two, while juju #6 noted RTS's late-season surge could challenge Clark's early lead. Clark is praised for unmatched consistency, durability, and value—Tookey 2.0 #13 highlighted his elite performances and modest contract, calling him the NRL's "buy of the year." Conversely, RTS garnered support for record-breaking winger performances, with ShaunJohnson7 #27 emphasizing his transformative impact on a historically weak position.
Alternative nominees sparked nuanced discussions. Tohu’s Knees #20 argued Wayde Egan was indispensable for the team's top-four finish, though Beastmode #31 countered concerns about Egan's injury history. Jackson Ford earned praise for stepping up amid injuries, with Naynay #5 crediting his reliability when Barnett was sidelined, while sup42 #14 lauded his aggressive defensive energy. CHT Chanelle Harris-Tavita and Kurt Capewell also received mentions for improvement and leadership, though Clark and RTS dominated votes.
Statistical evidence cemented Clark’s frontrunner status, as tajhay #26 shared dynamic metrics showing Clark "miles ahead" in season-long performance. Debates over positional value persisted—Defence #9 contended wingers are systemically undervalued, while MrFrankWhite #19 noted RTS’s brilliance felt expected. Ultimately, Clark’s granite-like consistency, kicking game, and “signature” attacking moves MrFrankWhite #21 swayed most voters, though RTS’s record-setting carries kept the debate fiercely competitive heading into final polling.
