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Jake Connor has also been recognized with a place in the 2025 Super League Dream Team.
Leeds Rhinos’ half-back, Jake Connor, has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel award.
The 30-year-old has enjoyed a remarkable season following his transfer to Leeds from the Huddersfield Giants at the conclusion of the 2024 campaign.
Connor was instrumental in guiding Leeds to their first top-four finish since 2017, finishing the season as the third-highest points scorer with 181 points, including seven tries, 76 goals, and one drop-goal.
He surpassed fellow nominees Mikey Lewis, the influential half-back for Hull KR, and Jai Field, the dynamic full-back for Wigan Warriors – both of whom are set to compete in Saturday’s Super League Grand Final.
The award, renamed in honor of the late Steve Prescott in 2014, has been presented annually since its inception in 1977, when Leeds hooker David Ward received the inaugural trophy.
Connor was presented with the award at a ceremony held in Manchester on Tuesday evening, alongside Wigan’s Eva Hunter, who was named Woman of Steel, and Joe Coyd, who received the Wheels of Steel award.
Hunter earned the top women’s award after an outstanding season for Wigan, during which they secured a domestic treble, culminating in a victory over St Helens in Sunday’s Women’s Super League Grand Final.
Coyd was recognized with the Wheels of Steel award for his contributions to the London Roosters, who reached both the Wheelchair Challenge Cup final and the Wheelchair Grand Final.
Matt Newsum, BBC Sport rugby league reporter
Jake Connor’s recognition as Man of Steel in 2025 underscores the mental fortitude he has demonstrated in re-establishing himself among the Super League’s elite since joining Leeds.
The 30-year-old has always possessed undeniable talent, but at times, his application and discipline have been his undoing. However, under the guidance of coach Brad Arthur, Connor has flourished in a supportive environment.
His creativity and kicking prowess were pivotal in the Rhinos’ return to the play-offs, and his mercurial abilities also elevated the performances of teammates Lachie Miller and Brodie Croft.
Back-rower Eva Hunter is a deserving recipient of her award following a stellar season with treble-winning Wigan in the women’s game.
Few players run and tackle with the same ferocity as Hunter, whose powerful runs on the Wigan edge consistently lead to tries. She is a captivating player.
London Roosters were a significant force in the 2025 wheelchair season, and England’s Joe Coyd was central to their success, despite defeats by Halifax Panthers in both finals.
His consistent performances set a high standard for teammates such as Mason Billington and new England captain Lewis King, and he will be aiming to further impress during England’s tour of Australia this autumn.
Super League
Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel – Jake Connor (Leeds Rhinos)
Young Player of the Year – Harry Robertson (St Helens)
Coach of the Year – Willie Peters (Hull KR)
Wheelchair Super League
Wheels of Steel – Joe Coyd (London Roosters)
Young Player of the Year – Finlay O’Neill (Halifax Panthers)
Coach of the Year – Tom Coyd MBE (London Roosters)
Women’s Super League
Woman of Steel – Eva Hunter (Wigan Warriors)
Young Player of the Year – Isabel Rowe (Wigan Warriors)
Coach of the Year – Denis Betts (Wigan Warriors)
Championship
Player of the Year – Paul McShane (York Knights)
Young Player of the Year – Jack Smith (London Broncos)
Coach of the Year – Mark Applegarth (York Knights)
League One
Player of the Year – Lewis Else (Rochdale Hornets) and Zarrin Galea (Workington Town)
Young Player of the Year – Louie Roberts (Swinton Lions)
Coach of the Year – Carl Forster (North Wales Crusaders)
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