**Reagan Campbell-Gillard Wins Ken Thornett Medal for NRL Player of the Year for the Second Time: A Year of Consistency, Power, and Leadership**
In a season filled with remarkable performances, Reagan Campbell-Gillard, the formidable prop for the Parramatta Eels, has been awarded the prestigious Ken Thornett Medal as the team’s NRL Player of the Year for the second time in his career. The honor marks a significant achievement for Campbell-Gillard, whose leadership, consistent form, and relentless work ethic have made him an essential figure in the Eels’ pack. His win is not just a recognition of his on-field success but also a testament to his ability to inspire his teammates and lead by example both on and off the field.
### The Ken Thornett Medal: A Symbol of Excellence
The Ken Thornett Medal, named after the legendary Parramatta Eels player Ken Thornett, is awarded annually to the club’s best and fairest player, a recognition of the athlete’s outstanding performances over the course of the NRL season. Thornett was an icon of the Eels, remembered for his commitment, skill, and leadership during his time at the club. The award is thus one of the most coveted honors for any player within the Eels organization, recognizing not only individual brilliance but also a player’s influence on the team’s overall success.
Campbell-Gillard’s second victory of the award is a clear reflection of his continuous excellence and ability to impact the game week in and week out. Over the course of the season, the prop delivered standout performances that placed him among the elite forwards in the competition, and his leadership was instrumental in the Eels’ success.
### Reagan Campbell-Gillard: The Heart of the Eels’ Forward Pack
Reagan Campbell-Gillard’s journey to becoming one of the premier props in the NRL has been shaped by a mix of raw power, technical skill, and resilience. Hailing from Sydney, Campbell-Gillard made his NRL debut in 2015 for the Penrith Panthers, before moving to the Parramatta Eels in 2018. Since his arrival, Campbell-Gillard has been the foundation of the Eels’ forward pack, consistently providing the team with the physicality, energy, and drive needed to compete at the highest level.
As a prop forward, Campbell-Gillard’s role in the game is pivotal. He is responsible for laying the foundation in the middle of the field, making tough, bruising runs, and putting the Eels on the front foot. But what sets him apart from many other forwards is his consistency. Campbell-Gillard doesn’t just provide one-off explosive performances—he is a player who can be relied upon to deliver week after week, whether it’s in defense or attack. His work rate, aggression, and ability to constantly drive forward have made him a key asset to the Eels.
What truly elevates Campbell-Gillard’s game, though, is his leadership. As a senior player in the squad, he provides guidance and mentorship to the club’s younger players, especially in the forward pack. His experience in big games, having represented New South Wales in the State of Origin series and played for Australia, allows him to impart invaluable knowledge and wisdom to his teammates. His leadership both on and off the field helped the Eels reach new heights this season, earning him the respect of his peers and the acknowledgment of his consistent performances.
### A Season of Consistency and Dominance
Throughout the season, Campbell-Gillard’s performances were nothing short of spectacular. He was a key figure in the Eels’ forward pack, producing powerful carries, relentless defense, and crucial momentum-shifting plays. His ability to dominate the middle third of the field provided a platform for the Eels’ attacking plays, and his work in defense often saw him standing as a wall, ensuring the opposition could not easily break through.
One of Campbell-Gillard’s standout attributes is his high work rate. Unlike some props who can fade in and out of games, Campbell-Gillard plays with intensity for the full 80 minutes, always looking for ways to make an impact. His relentless running style and tough defense are a testament to his dedication, and he’s never afraid to put his body on the line for the team. His stats reflect his importance, regularly amassing over 100 meters per game with the ball and making a high number of tackles.
But it’s not just his individual statistics that earned him the Ken Thornett Medal—it’s his consistency in every area of the game. Whether it was making a crucial try-saving tackle, bending the line with a powerful run, or setting the tone with his physicality, Campbell-Gillard was often at the forefront of Parramatta’s performances. His ability to stay at the top of his game week after week is a clear indication of his professionalism and discipline, qualities that have helped him achieve the highest level of success in the NRL.
### Leadership Beyond the Field
While Campbell-Gillard’s on-field performances speak for themselves, his leadership off the field has also been a key factor in his second Ken Thornett Medal. A true leader, Campbell-Gillard is a player who doesn’t just talk the talk; he leads by example, setting a standard for the rest of the team to follow.
As one of the senior players in the squad, Campbell-Gillard is a mentor to the younger members of the team. His leadership has been especially valuable for the Eels’ up-and-coming forwards, providing them with guidance on what it takes to succeed in the NRL. His work ethic, professionalism, and commitment to the team’s goals have set a benchmark for younger players to aspire to. In many ways, Campbell-Gillard is the heart and soul of the forward pack, and his leadership has been integral to the club’s culture.
Off the field, Campbell-Gillard is also known for his community involvement. He actively participates in charity work and engages with fans, maintaining a strong relationship with the Parramatta community. His efforts to give back have made him a beloved figure among the Eels’ faithful and have further solidified his place as one of the club’s true leaders.
### A Defining Moment for the Eels
Reagan Campbell-Gillard’s second Ken Thornett Medal victory is not just a personal milestone but a defining moment for the Eels as a club. With a team that has been in a rebuilding phase for several years, Campbell-Gillard’s leadership and performances have provided the stability and guidance needed to push the club back into contention for NRL premierships. His unwavering consistency and dedication to his craft have been a key part of the Eels’ resurgence in recent seasons.
The honor of being named NRL Player of the Year is a testament to Campbell-Gillard’s ability to thrive under pressure and rise to the occasion when it matters most. As the Eels continue to grow and evolve as a team, having a leader like Campbell-Gillard at the helm is invaluable. His example, both on and off the field, sets the standard for what it means to be a Parramatta Eel and exemplifies the values of hard work, resilience, and excellence.
### Looking Ahead
Looking forward, Campbell-Gillard’s future with the Parramatta Eels looks incredibly bright. As one of the key figures in the team, his leadership will be crucial as the Eels continue to build their squad and chase their first NRL premiership in decades. The team is brimming with young talent, and with Campbell-Gillard’s guidance, they will no doubt continue to challenge the NRL’s best teams.
As the Eels aim to take the next step toward a championship, Campbell-Gillard will play a pivotal role in their success. His powerful running, rock-solid defense, and leadership qualities make him one of the most valuable players in the competition, and the Ken Thornett Medal is just another acknowledgment of his incredible contributions to the club. With his relentless drive and commitment, there is little doubt that Campbell-Gillard will continue to be a force in the NRL for many years to come.
### Conclusion: A Well-Deserved Honor
Reagan Campbell-Gillard’s second Ken Thornett Medal is a fitting recognition of his outstanding performances and leadership throughout the season. As the Parramatta Eels’ NRL Player of the Year, Campbell-Gillard has proven once again that he is one of the most dominant and influential forwards in the competition. His ability to lead by example, his consistency, and his resilience have made him a key figure for both the Eels and the NRL. As the team continues to build toward future success, Campbell-Gillard’s leadership will undoubtedly remain a driving force, and his place among the club’s greats is firmly secured.
