Oryn Keeley set his sights on Sunday’s showdown in Sydney after he ended Jack Ahearn’s record-breaking reign by claiming the Norths Devils’ player of the year award.
Keeley won the historic award after his stellar season for the Hostplus Cup premiers, earning enough points despite making six appearances for the Dolphins NRL team.
Devils legend Ahearn was the player of the year for the last five years, surpassing Kevin Carmichael’s previous club record of four.
But Ahearn, who did not return from retirement until late May, gave up too much start as Keeley stormed home late to defeat unlucky Devils playmaker Gerome Burns.
Burns led the competition’s player of the year race until a serious knee injury ended his season in June.
An emotional Keeley thanked his teammates, partner and family at the Devils’ presentation night last Saturday before he raised this Sunday’s NRL State Championship clash.
The Devils will be the sole Queensland team in action on NRL grand final day, meeting NSW Cup champions Newtown Jets for the State Championship title.
“It’s an honour to win this award and it’s something that means a lot to me especially in my first year in Queensland. But I have to thank my teammates for it,” Keeley said.
“I’ve really enjoyed playing for this club. This season has been special for me.
“It’s not over yet. We are really determined to play well in Sydney and to represent our club and our competition.”
Keeley, playing on the left edge, was one of four Dolphins NRL players to figure in the Hostplus Cup grand final win over Redcliffe and his colleagues were well recognised at the Devils’ awards.
Jeremiah Simbiken was named the Players’ Player of the Year and received the Higgins Services Heavy Mover of the Year award for his outstanding season on the right edge.
Lock Mason Teague, who was tireless throughout the season, was the Norths Old Boys’ Player of the Year.
Winger Manase Kaho added his name to one of the club’s most famous trophies when he received the Bob Bax Award as the most promising Devils player.
The trophy features famous names including Cameron Smith, Greg Inglis and Herbie Farnworth.
The Altus All-Star top moment of the year went to forwards Tuki Simpkins and Campbell Duffy as they combined for the try that sealed the Devils’ 16th first-grade premiership.
The night wasn’t limited to players alone. Peter Tranter was named a Life Member for his unwavering commitment as a volunteer for 40 years.
The Kevin Carmichael Club Person of the Year award is presented to someone who consistently exceeded expectations throughout the year. This year’s recipient was Jess Roddick, who went above and beyond supporting the Devils’ women’s program and then assisting in the Hostplus Cup season. Jess received a prize from valued sponsor VPA for her contribution.
2024 Norths Devils Award Winners:
- Hostplus Cup Player of the Year: Oryn Keeley
- Hostplus Cup Players’ Player: Jeremiah Simbiken
- Higgins Services Heavy Mover: Jeremiah Simbiken
- Bob Bax Most Promising Player: Manase Kaho
- Kevin Carmichael Club Person of the Year: Jess Roddick
- Life Member: Peter Tranter