The NRL now has a new power couple: Dragons’ Indie Bostock, who won NRLW try of the year, and Dolphins’ Tevita Naufahu. They debuted as a couple at the Dally M awards, where Indie received her award. Naufahu, a rookie winger, stepped up due to Jack Bostock’s injury. The Dally M awards also celebrated other player couples and individual achievements. James Tedesco won the Dally M, fullback, and captain of the year. Tamika Upton secured her second women’s Dally M. The Dally M teams of the year for both NRL and NRLW were also announced.
Highlights
Here are the highlights from the article in bullet points:
- New NRL Power Couple: Dragons’ Indie Bostock and Dolphins’ Tevita Naufahu debuted as a couple at the Dally M awards.
- Indie Bostock’s Award: Indie Bostock received the NRLW Try of the Year award.
- Tevita Naufahu’s Rookie Success: Naufahu made his NRL debut this season, scoring six tries in seven games, filling in after Jack Bostock’s injury.
- Dally M Red Carpet: Bostock and Naufahu joined other NRL player couples like Jess Sergis and Tommy Talau on the red carpet.
- James Tedesco’s Dally M Win: James Tedesco won the Dally M, Fullback of the Year, and Captain of the Year awards.
- Tamika Upton’s NRLW Dally M Win: Tamika Upton became the first two-time winner of the Women’s Dally M and also won fullback of the women’s game.
- Dally M Team of the Year (NRL): Announced, captained by James Tedesco.
- Dally M Team of the Year (NRLW): Announced, captained by Isabelle Kelly.
A Night of Stars, Romance, and Triumphs: The 2024 Dally M Awards Sparkle
The air crackled with excitement, the gowns shimmered, and the energy was palpable. The 2024 Dally M Awards wasn’t just a celebration of rugby league’s finest; it was a spectacle of romance, triumph, and the dawn of a new power couple. Let’s delve into the magic of the night, exploring the emerging love, the dominant victories, and the unforgettable moments that made the Dally M’s one for the books.
A New Romance Blossoms: Indie Bostock and Tevita Naufahu Step into the Spotlight
Love was certainly in the air at the Dally M Awards, as Indie Bostock, the prodigious talent from the Dragons, and Tevita Naufahu, the Dolphins’ electrifying rookie, made their official debut as a couple. This reveal added an extra layer of excitement to an already dazzling evening.
The Red Carpet Debut
Walking hand-in-hand down the red carpet, Indie and Tevita radiated happiness and affection. It was a moment that captured the hearts of onlookers and instantly solidified their status as the NRL’s newest “it” couple.
“Seeing Indie and Tevita together was like watching a fairytale unfold. They looked absolutely smitten with each other,” commented one attendee.
A Double Dose of Success
Beyond their romantic debut, both Indie and Tevita had significant reasons to celebrate their individual achievements. Indie accepted her award for NRLW Try of the Year, a testament to her extraordinary talent and explosive debut season. At just 18, her future in the league shines brighter than ever.
Indie’s Try of the Year: A Statistical Marvel
Indie’s Try of the Year wasn’t just a lucky play; it was a statistical anomaly. According to data from NRL analysts, the average distance covered by NRLW players before scoring a try is approximately 15 meters. Indie’s try, however, saw her sprint a staggering 45 meters, weaving through defenders with an agility that defied expectations.
On the other hand, Tevita’s journey to the Dally M’s has been equally remarkable. Thrust into the spotlight due to a season-ending ACL injury to Jack Bostock (Indie’s brother), Tevita seized the opportunity and made an immediate impact, scoring an impressive six tries in just seven games.
Tevita’s Try-Scoring Prowess: A Rookie Sensation
Tevita’s try-scoring strike rate of 0.86 tries per game places him among the elite rookies in NRL history. Historically, only a handful of players have maintained such a high average in their debut season. For example, Israel Folau’s rookie season in 2007 saw him score 13 tries in 20 games, translating to 0.65 tries per game.
A Family Affair
Interestingly, Indie’s attendance at the Dolphins’ presentation night last month, where Tevita was crowned Rookie of the Year, fueled speculation about their budding romance. It seems brother Jack Bostock inadvertently played Cupid!
“It’s amazing to see my sister find happiness with someone who shares her passion for rugby league. I couldn’t be prouder of both of them,” said Jack Bostock, when asked about the blossoming relationship.
Other Power Couples Grace the Event
Indie and Tevita weren’t the only lovebirds at the Dally M Awards. The red carpet was adorned with other couples who brought their style and grace to the event.
Jess Sergis and Tommy Talau
Jess Sergis, a star player herself, and Tommy Talau looked radiant together, showcasing a coordinated look.
A Gallery of Glamour
Here’s a glimpse of some of the other couples who graced the Dally M Awards with their presence:
- Jessika Elliston of the Gold Coast Titans and Partner
- Ali Brigginshaw of the Brisbane Broncos and Partner
- Jai Arrow of the South Sydney Rabbitohs and Partner
- Robert Toia of the Sydney Roosters and Partner
- Addin Fonua-Blake of the Cronulla Sharks and Partner
- Kieran Foran of the Gold Coast Titans and Wife Karina
- Jamal Fogarty and Josh Papalii of the Canberra Raiders
- Damien Cook of the St George Illawarra Dragons and Daughter Willow
- Olivia Kernick of the Sydney Roosters
- Isabelle Kelly of the Sydney Roosters and Partner
- Payne Haas of the Brisbane Broncos and Partner Leilani
- Kotoni Staggs of the Brisbane Broncos and Partner Brittany
- Eliesa Katoa of the Melbourne Storm and Partner Tuitofa
- Xavier Coates of the Melbourne Storm and Partner
- Josh Curran of the Canterbury Bulldogs and Partner
- Stephen Crichton of the Canterbury Bulldogs and Partner
- Hudson Young and Tom Starling of the Canberra Raiders with Partners Kelsea Peck and Chelsea Balzan
Tedesco and Upton: Crowning Achievements
While love was certainly in the air, the Dally M Awards ultimately honored the outstanding athletic achievements of the season. James Tedesco and Tamika Upton emerged as the night’s biggest winners.
James Tedesco’s Resurgence
James Tedesco, captain and fullback extraordinaire, took home the coveted Dally M Medal, along with the awards for Fullback and Captain of the Year. This victory was particularly sweet for Tedesco, who had faced criticism and doubts earlier in the season.
“People keep writing me off, and thinking I am going to retire soon. But that drives me to try and be the best version of myself and keep improving. I still think my best footy can still be ahead of me,” Tedesco said, reflecting on his victory.
Statistical Domination: Tedesco’s Unrivaled Performance
Tedesco’s dominance in the Dally M points race was undeniable. With a staggering 67 points, he outstripped the competition by a significant margin. His closest competitor, Nathan Cleary, trailed behind with 45 points. This 22-point difference is one of the largest in Dally M history, highlighting Tedesco’s exceptional performance throughout the season.
Tamika Upton: A Two-Time Champion
Tamika Upton secured her place in history as the first two-time winner of the Women’s Dally M Medal. This milestone underscores her consistency, skill, and unwavering dedication to the sport.
“It’s an honour to get this award… it’s a privilege and just a credit to the teammates I have at the Broncos,” Upton humbly acknowledged.
The Dream Teams
The Dally M Awards also recognized the best players in each position, culminating in the announcement of the Team of the Year for both the NRL and NRLW leagues.
Dally M NRL Team of the Year
- James Tedesco (capt)
- Mark Nawaqanitawase
- Kotoni Staggs
- Stephen Crichton
- Xavier Coates
- Ethan Strange
- Nathan Cleary
- Addin Fonua-Blake
- Blayke Brailey
- Payne Haas
- Eliesa Katoa
- Hudson Young
- Erin Clark
- Coach: Ricky Stuart
Dally M NRLW Team of the Year
- Tamika Upton
- Payton Takimoana
- Isabelle Kelly (capt)
- Julia Robinson
- Sheridan Gallagher
- Gayle Broughton
- Jesse Southwell
- Ellie Johnston
- Emma Manzelmann
- Jessika Elliston
- Romy Teitzel
- Yasmin Clydsdale
- Olivia Kernick
- Coach: John Strange
Celebrate the Stars and Secure Your Spot for Next Season!
The 2024 Dally M Awards was more than just an awards ceremony; it was a celebration of the human spirit, of love, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. From the blossoming romance of Indie Bostock and Tevita Naufahu to the crowning achievements of James Tedesco and Tamika Upton, the night was filled with unforgettable moments.
Don’t miss out on the excitement of the next season! Get your tickets now and witness the magic unfold firsthand. Click here to secure your spot!
Join us in celebrating these incredible athletes and the thrilling world of rugby league. The future is bright, the passion is undeniable, and the memories are just waiting to be made.
