Hilton Chesterson

Hilton Chesterson has risen as the Newcastle Knights' most exciting forward of 2025. A lithe 23-year-old, Chesterson brings impetus to a squad under coach Adam O'Brien and skipper Kalyn Ponga. While Newcastle's pack was already respected, Chesterson's speed, off-loads and steel have recharged their engine room.

Singleton born, Chesterson first made waves at Maitland Pickers, later securing a scholarship to St Joseph's College, Hunters Hill. At sixteen he joined Newcastle's development system, accelerating through SG Ball and NSW Cup. A viral moment arrived in a 2024 trial versus Cronulla when he smashed prop Braden Hamlin-Uele. By Round 3 of 2025 he was a first-grade regular, donning jersey 11 and playing 80 minutes.

Statistics back up the spectacle. Chesterson averages 102 running metres, 35 tackles and three busts per match while keeping 93 percent tackle efficiency. He has already crossed for four tries, including a 30-metre burst against Manly that showcased startling speed. "Hilton is the kind of player coaches dream about," coach O'Brien said. "He is raw, but the ceiling is sky high," the mentor added. His peers agree, saying his relentless engine drags training to new levels.

Chesterson's humility resonates. He fronts mental health sessions, lingers to greet fans and has already fronted a popular television campaign alongside his blue heeler Rusty, sealing his status here as Hunter favourite.

Newcastle locked up Chesterson until 2029, a statement of intent for a regional powerhouse desperate to end its title drought. The faithful see him as the heartbeat of the project, a Hunter son poised to lead them back to grand-final glory.