Emma Forster, one of the cornerstones in helping the Wests Tigers achieve a maiden NRLW finals appearance, has been recognised for her outstanding work by being named the 2026 Club Person of the Year.
Forster, the NRLW Wellbeing and Operations Manager, received one of the biggest roars at Doltone House on Tuesday at the Wests Tigers Gala Awards night when her name was read out as the recipient of this prestigious club award.
The Wests Tigers Club Person of the Year Award recognises someone who consistently makes their team, their colleagues and, ultimately, the club better.
Charmain Steventon, Head of Women’s Football, said Forster has been a ‘jack of all trades’ since joining Wests Tigers in May 2024.
“Emma has built a career around fitness, education, wellbeing, leadership and helping others reach their potential,’’ Steventon said.
“Her role very quickly began to grow, a reflection of the impact she was having across the club.
“With that came greater responsibility, greater influence and, most importantly, greater trust.
“Emma became someone people could depend on, someone who brings calm to complexity, connects people, finds solutions and consistently strengthens the environment around them.
“In November last year, Emma stepped into an expanded role, taking on broader responsibility for the planning, co-ordination, budgets and day-to-day delivery required in an elite professional sporting environment.
“Since then, her contribution has helped shape an environment that balances genuine care for people with the professionalism, accountability and standards required in elite sport.
“These standards include putting the team first, communicating with honesty, earning respect, pursuing excellence, and creating the sense of family we want people to feel when they are part of Wests Tigers.
“Much of her work happens away from the spotlight, but its impact is felt every day.
“She certainly has been a cornerstone of our NRLW program and the team making the finals for the first time.
“I have seen that contribution firsthand, not only in what she does, but the way she does it. She makes the people around her better.”
