Bevan French Named 2023 Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel

In the latest update on October 10, 2023, it was announced that Wigan Warriors’ Bevan French has been crowned the 2023 Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel. At 27 years old, this Australian rugby league player has earned a prestigious title and is also a part of the Super League Dream Team. French’s achievement is significant as he is the first Wigan player to win this prestigious award since Sam Tomkins in 2012.

French’s journey to the Man of Steel award was not without challenges. He will be facing Catalans’ Sam Tomkins in the upcoming Super League Grand Final. French, playing a new stand-off role, led Wigan to this Grand Final, a feat that did not go unnoticed by the Super League community. Notably, he was previously nominated for the award in 2021 but narrowly missed out to the full-back, Tomkins.

On the women’s side of the sport, Sinead Peach, the Grand Final-winning hooker, secured the title of Woman of Steel for the year 2023. Peach captained York Valkyrie to victory in the Women’s Grand Final, ending their long-awaited wait for success in this prestigious event. Notably, her leadership contributed to an unbeaten season for her team in 2023, and they also claimed the League Leaders’ Shield.

In another exciting development, Lewis King was honored with the inaugural Wheels of Steel crown. King, who joined the London Roosters’ campaign in 2023, entered the scene as a World Cup winner from England’s Wheelchair World Cup triumph in 2022. King’s achievement marks the initiation of the Wheels of Steel prize, which recognizes remarkable contributions in this aspect of the sport.

Here is a list of other notable awards announced for the 2023 rugby league season:

– Betfred Championship Player of the Year: Dean Parata (London Broncos) and Lachlan Walmsley (Halifax Panthers)
– Betfred League One Player of the Year: Reiss Butterworth (Dewsbury Rams)
– Betfred Super League Young Player of the Year: Josh Thewlis (Warrington Wolves)
– Betfred Women’s Super League Young Player of the Year: Caitlin Casey (Leeds Rhinos)
– Betfred Wheelchair Super League Young Player of the Year: Josh Butler (Leeds Rhinos)
– Betfred Championship Young Player of the Year: Bill Leyland (London Broncos)
– Betfred League One Young Player of the Year: Ciaran Walker (Workington Town)
– Betfred Super League Coach of the Year: Adrian Lam (Leigh Leopards)
– Betfred Women’s Super League Coach of the Year: Lindsay Anfield (York Valkyrie)
– Betfred Wheelchair Super League Coach of the Year: Tom Coyd MBE (London Roosters)
– Betfred Championship Coach of the Year: Mike Eccles (London Broncos)
– Betfred League One Coach of the Year: Liam Finn (Dewsbury Rams)
– Foundation of the Year: Barrow Raiders (with commendations for Leigh Leopards and York RLFC)
– Glen’s Spirit of Super League Award: The Burrow Family

The 2023 rugby league season has witnessed some remarkable talent and remarkable contributions, with Bevan French standing out as the Man of Steel. It’s a testament to the dedication and skill of these athletes and their commitment to the sport. Congratulations to all the winners!