Melbourne Storm star Xavier Coates has been named the Cameron Smith Player of the Year, recognising a remarkable 2025 campaign that saw him score 20 tries in 22 NRL appearances.
The 24-year-old was honoured at the Storm Player of the Year Awards held at CIEL in Melbourne’s CBD, marking his second time winning the prestigious accolade after first claiming it in 2023.
Coates’ form this season also earned him a spot in the Dally M Team of the Year, alongside impressive State of Origin performances for Queensland, where he crossed for two tries in three matches. He polled 33 votes to finish ahead of Eli Katoa (30 votes), Stefano Utoikamanu (22 votes), and club captain Harry Grant (18 votes).
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Speaking on the awards night, the Storm also recognised rising star Ativalu Lisati as Billy Slater Rookie of the Year after 14 NRL appearances, while Grant Anderson was named Most Improved Player with 11 tries from 24 games.
“It’s been a fantastic season for everyone in purple,” the club said, highlighting the contributions of their U21 Jersey Flegg team and Victorian talent Suilagi Tuimalutu-Brown, who claimed both the Cooper Cronk Feeder Club of the Year and Academy Player of the Year awards.
Storm fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen claimed Best Back of the Year after another dominant campaign, scoring 15 tries and kicking 60 goals. Meanwhile, Harry Grant added the Michael Moore Trophy, Club Person of the Year and Best Try awards to his haul, celebrating leadership on and off the field.
Coates’ recognition comes shortly after he withdrew from the Kangaroos’ Ashes tour due to an abdominal strain, emphasising that while his representative ambitions were paused, his impact at club level remains undeniable.