Talented halfback Jock Madden has been named as the 2021 Player of the Year for the Western Suburbs Magpies in the Knock-On Effect NSW Cup.
Madden finished the season as the competition’s top point-scorer with 130 points from eight tries and 49 goals across 13 matches.
Not only did Madden control his side around the park throughout the season, but he also recorded six try assists, seven line-break assists, forced seven dropouts and made 200 tackles.
Madden’s impressive campaign saw him rewarded with a chance to make his NRL debut against Newcastle at Suncorp Stadium during Magic Round, and the 21-year-old played a further two matches at the backend of the season.
Hardworking forward Thomas Freebairn and young dummy-half Jake Simpkin were also recognised for impressing throughout the season as they were named finalists for the top award.
Freebairn’s efforts weren’t unrewarded as he claimed the Players’ Player Award — as voted by his teammates — following a great season in the Knock-On Effect NSW Cup
The 26-year-old forward played 13 matches for the Magpies in 2021, recording three tries and averaging 89 running metres a game, as well as notching 383 tackles with an efficiency of 94.1 percent.
Madden was also nominated for the Players’ Player honour, alongside rising backrower Kelma Tuilagi, who had the opportunity of playing five NRL games in 2021.
Wests Tigers would like to congratulate Jock and Tom on their awards!
