Brad Fittler Medal 2023: NSW, Panthers winger Brian To'o takes out top gong after State of Origin series loss

Liam O'Loughlin

Brad Fittler Medal 2023: NSW, Panthers winger Brian To'o takes out top gong after State of Origin series loss image

Panthers winger Brian To'o has won the Brad Fittler Medal for the first time in his career, holding out the likes of Liam Martin and Stephen Crichton to earn the NSW Blues Player of the Series. 

The 25-year-old crossed for a try in the final game of this year's State of Origin series, as well as averaging over 200 run metres per game in trademark fashion. 

To'o has become a staple of the side since making his debut in 2021 and ends captain James Tedesco's stranglehold over the prestigious award

Martin earned the 'True Blue' award for his performances in Origin, while Rabbitohs five-eighth Cody Walker was revealed as the People's Choice Award winner. 

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Brian To'o earns top prize at NSW Brad Fittler Medal

NSW Blues coach Brad Fittler praised all three man for their efforts throughout the series, despite the Blues going down 2-1 to Queensland. 

“Brian epitomises the attributes of a NSW Blues player as he always gives his all whenever he pulls on the jersey," he said.

"He is a hard worker at training and on the field, and brings a great energy to camp that other players enjoy being around.

“Liam brings plenty of natural aggression to the team and I can always count on him to do a job for me, while Cody showed just how dangerous he can be after being recalled for Game Three.

“I congratulate all the winners from the State of Origin series, as well as all the winners who have been recognised across our competitions and community for the wonderful seasons they’ve had and the contributions they’ve made.”

Fittler's future remains up in the air, with many tipping him to continue in his role for NSW for another series.

NSWRL Award Winners

  • Brad Fittler Medal: Brian To’o (Penrith Panthers)
  • True Blue Award: Liam Martin (Penrith Partners)
  • People’s Choice Award: Cody Walker (South Sydney Rabbitohs)
  • NSW Women’s State of Origin Player of the Year: Emma Tonegato (Cronulla Sharks)
  • Sky Blues Award: Kezie Apps (Wests Tigers)
  • NSW Cup Player of the Year: Dean Hawkins (South Sydney Rabbitohs)
  • NSW Women’s Premiership Player of the Year: Holli Wheeler (Canterbury Bulldogs)
  • Jersey Flegg Player of the Year: Max McCathie (Sydney Roosters) 
  • Ron Massey Cup Player of the Year: Jake Butfield (St Marys Saints)
  • Sydney Shield Player of the Year: Ryan Joynes (Ryde-Eastwood Hawks)

Liam O'Loughlin

Liam O'Loughlin Photo

Liam has been with The Sporting News since 2019, helping lead both NRL and cricket content, as well as delving into the world of combat sports and NFL. A true rugby league tragic, he has spent the past 20 years playing, coaching and volunteering for his beloved junior club, Penshurst RSL. 

Away from work, Liam has a lifelong passion for all things pro wrestling and has travelled abroad to attend showcase events for WWE, AEW and NJPW.