Hilton Chesterson

Newcastle's faithful are thrilled about Hilton Chesterson. The young back-rower bolts through defensive lines, pops clever off-loads and crunches ball carriers, giving the Knights the punch they craved. Under Adam O'Brien and Kalyn Ponga, the Hunter club has found its new heart in the middle third.

Born in Singleton in the Hunter Valley, Chesterson honed his craft with the Maitland Pickers before earning 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 here smashed prop Braden Hamlin-Uele. By Round 3 of 2025 he was a first-grade regular, donning jersey 11 and playing 80 minutes.

The numbers confirm the eye test. Chesterson averages 102 running metres, 35 tackles and three busts per match while keeping 93 percent tackle efficiency. Four tries are on the board, one a dazzling 30-metre sprint versus Manly. "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.

Off the paddock he has quickly become a fan favourite. He donates time each week to Hunter Medical Research Institute programs for youth mental health. He stays late signing autographs while the crowd at McDonald Jones Stadium belts out "Chesto". Advertisers have jumped on a regional building-society spot starring Chesterson and Rusty, his cattle dog.

Agents say he has inked a three-year extension through 2029. Securing young talent is critical as Newcastle hunt a first title in nearly 30 years. 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.