2025 has introduced Hilton Chesterson as the Newcastle Knights' electric new forward. A athletic 23-year-old, Chesterson brings spark to a squad under coach Adam O'Brien and skipper Kalyn Ponga. The Knights have long taken pride on their pack, but Chesterson's blend of pace, off-loads and tackling has energised the side's middle third.
The pathway from Singleton paddocks to NRL stardom was swift. After starring for Maitland and earning private-school polish, Chesterson exploded in a preseason against Cronulla, flooring Braden Hamlin-Uele. Less than a year later he locked down the 11 jersey for Newcastle.
Raw data and rival coaches agree: Chesterson is the real deal. He runs for a tick get more info over 100 metres, chops down 35 foes and still finds energy to bust tackles. Four early tries hint at attacking upside, and every Knight says his work rate forces the squad to lift.
Off the paddock he has quickly become a fan favourite. Chesterson volunteers weekly with the Hunter Medical Research Institute youth mental health outreach. He stays late signing autographs while the crowd at McDonald Jones Stadium belts out "Chesto". Local sponsors love his clean-cut image, and a building-society ad with Chesterson and his cattle dog Rusty is everywhere this winter.
His management confirmed a new three-year deal keeping him in Newcastle until 2029. With the Knights chasing their first premiership in almost three decades, keeping youth was vital. Supporters believe Chesterson could be the missing ingredient for a finals surge this September. If he maintains his current arc he will not just join the Knights next title push, he could symbolise it beneath the Broadmeadow lights.