Wigan Warriors hooker Brad O'Neill has been crowned the 2026 Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel, the game's individual player award. He also won the Rugby League Writers and Broadcasters Association Player of the Year award, beating team-mates Adam Keighran and Leeds Rhinos' Lachie Miller.

O'Neill reflects on the honour

Reacting to winning the Man of Steel award, O'Neill said: "Pretty shocked. With the amount of talent and great players we have in Super League, to be awarded this honour is a great achievement for myself. I'd like to thank Wigan as a Club, and all the staff, for what they do. It's an outstanding set up and a privilege to be a part of a special group."

Family support

O'Neill spoke at the awards about the role of his family in his career. "From 12 months ago to now there's been plenty of highs and certainly a lot of lows. Your family are the backbone of you, who pick you up when you're down and celebrate when you're winning," he said.

He thanked his parents for their support from his childhood. "I appreciate all of it, the time and effort that went in when I was starting my journey aged four. My dad is still on the phone everyday talking about rugby - he loves it - I have my mum, who checks up on you after a tough game, and I can't not thank my girlfriend. I'm grateful, and I want to thank them."

Playing style and Matt Peet

O'Neill described his approach to the game: "It's just the way I've been brought up, the way my dad drilled in about playing the game tough, so I was always going to be that type of player. I've worked on my game to bring more stuff in, but that's the backbone of who I am. I'm a team first player, committed, tough, and I want to look after my mates first whilst putting my best foot forward."

He praised Wigan head coach Matt Peet, with whom he has worked since the scholarship system. "We've had our good times and a few tough conversations along the way, but it's all about the journey and the love and care he has for me. It was a tough off-season after the Grand Final as a few things didn't go my way, but Matty would be on the phone. It's all about the journey and enjoying the highs and lows, as that's what makes you who you are today."

Future outlook

At 24, O'Neill said there is more to come. "I'm still only 24 so there's a lot more learning. I'm just excited to see what's coming in the next few years because we've got a special group, and we've got a lot more in us."