nib Newcastle Knights Hooker Jayden Brailey has been nominated for this year's Ken Stephens Medal for his commitment to work in the community.
The Ken Stephen Medal recognises the efforts of an NRL player who has not only achieved on the field but has committed time off the field to community projects.
A player is nominated by their NRL club for going above and beyond in their involvement in charity work, youth development or community support. The nominated player will have consistently demonstrated their commitment to making a difference in their community and be seen as a role model in this area at their NRL club.
This year will be the 34th instance that the Ken Stephen Medal will be awarded, with a host of worthy recipients receiving this prestigious award since Wayne Pearce won the inaugural medal in 1988, including Ryan James, Joel Thompson, Jonathan Thurston and Nathan Hindmarsh.
Jayden’s junior club, Aquinas Colts, would be proud of Jayden’s achievements both on and off the field. A dedicated player and animal advocate, Jayden is deeply committed to whatever he sets his mind to.
As an advocate for animal welfare, Jayden recently supported a Dog Rescue Newcastle (DRN) foster care campaign. This not-for-profit organisation, run by a group of dedicated volunteers, urgently needed to recruit more foster families to meet the growing need for animal welfare. Jayden was quick to lend his support by utilising the Knight’s digital channels, including the KnightsHQ podcast, to share the benefits of fostering companion animals.
Jayden also led the call to action from the Knights’ digital platforms onto the field, with DRN and a few four-legged friends, featuring in the Knights’ Fan zone and during pre-game on-field interviews during Round 14. Jayden’s positive profile was a meaningful vehicle for DRN to lift the volume on their community call to action and the organisation’s presence at a Knights’ game directly resulted in dogs being placed in caring foster homes.
Recently completing his Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science, Jayden understands the importance of education for all students and has volunteered his time to be part of the Knights Adopt a School Program. Regular visits to the school to promote educational programs and assist teachers and students at Charlestown Public School, Jayden is happy to give up his own time to inspire the children.
Whether a school visit or promoting Dog Rescue Newcastle, Jayden brings passion and a keen desire to make a positive difference in the community.
