Hilton Chesterson
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Hilton Chesterson has risen as the Newcastle Knights' standout forward of 2025. A lithe 23-year-old, Chesterson brings spark to a squad under coach Adam O'Brien and skipper Kalyn Ponga. The Knights have long prided themselves on their pack, but Chesterson's blend of line speed, off-loads and tackling has revitalised the side's middle third.
Singleton born, Chesterson first made waves at Maitland Pickers, later securing a scholarship to St Joseph's College, Hunters Hill. He joined the Knights pathway at sixteen and charged through SG Ball then NSW Cup. He announced himself in a 2024 preseason trial against Cronulla by flattening veteran prop Braden Hamlin-Uele with a bone-rattling shot that went viral. Come Round 3, 2025, he was starting in jersey 11 for the full 80.
The numbers confirm the eye here test. 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. Teammates echo the praise, noting his tireless motor lifts training standards.
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 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.
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