Cooper Clarke wins 2026 Players’ Rookie of the Year

The Rugby League Players Association (RLPA) is pleased to announce Cooper Clarke as the winners of Players’ Rookie of the Year, as voted by NRL players.

The Players’ Champion awards are presented by Select Cards.

Cooper was announced as the winner of the Players’ Rookie of the Year on Channel 9’s 100% Footy on Monday night. The Melbourne Storm forward was voted by the players ahead of fellow Rookie of the Year Finalists Francis Manuleleua, Oliver Pascoe, Ethan Sanders, and Setu Tu.

“On behalf of the RLPA I would like to congratulate Cooper Clarke on winning the Players’ Rookie of the Year,” said Clint Newton, CEO of the RLPA.

“There are not many higher recognitions in sport than to be voted by the players you compete against each week.

“Cooper has made an outstanding impression in his first season in the NRL. To establish yourself and playing week in, week out in the competition as a rookie takes enormous commitment, resilience and consistency. Cooper has shown all of those qualities throughout 2026.

“His performances have earned the respect of his peers, and this award is a strong reflection of the impact he has had in such a short period of time.

“I would also like to congratulate and thank all the rookies from the 2026 NRL season, in particular the four other Finalists Francis, Oliver, Ethan and Setu. The players are central to the game, and each season needs a new generation to step up and take their opportunity.

“All of this year’s rookies should be proud of what they have achieved in making it to the NRL, and I wish them, and Cooper, all the very best for the seasons ahead.”

Cooper joins Storm teammates Cameron Munster and Harry Grant as Players’ Rookie of the Year winners, with the latter winning the award in 2020 while playing for the Wests Tigers.