The Gallagher Chiefs celebrated the 2025 season at their annual awards evening in Hamilton on Tuesday. Players, staff, whānau, and sponsors gathered to reflect on a memorable season and celebrate those who went above and beyond for the club.
The coveted Player of the Year award was presented to tighthead prop George Dyer, who has continued to deliver powerful and consistent performances throughout the season.
Gallagher Chiefs Head Coach Clayton McMillan praised Dyer’s commitment and impact.
“George is the kind of player every team needs. He’s physical, disciplined, and relentless on the field. He’s had an outstanding season and our scrum has become a real weapon. He thoroughly deserves this recognition.”
Emerging talent Leroy Carter was named Rookie of the Year, having made a significant impression in his debut season with his explosive running game and strong defensive efforts.
Fans Player of the Year was presented by Tuatahi Mahi award winner, 11-year-old Tom Hatting. Damian McKenzie took it home for the third consecutive year, cementing his place as a strong fan favourite.
Quinn Tupaea was named Players’ Player of the Year, a reflection of the respect and admiration he holds within the team. Voted by his peers, the award recognises Quinn’s consistent impact on and off the field.
Personality of the Year went to Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi, recognised for his positivity, humour, and his ability to raise spirits on and off the field.
From the Chiefs Pathways Programme, three finalists were named for the University of Waikato Chiefs U20s Player of the Year – Charlie Sinton, Jack Wiseman, Pyrenees Boyle-Tiatia – with Wiseman taking out the accolade after a standout performance in the Super Rugby U20s competition.
Rugby Programme Manager Dana Heta was honoured with the Mana Kotiate Award, with peers saying her unwavering commitment, calm leadership, and deep sense of whanaungatanga make her a pillar of strength across the organisation.
The Kotahitanga Award – given to the staff member who lives the Chiefs values and has made an outstanding contribution – was awarded to Head Coach Clayton McMillan, who was acknowledged for his tireless commitment to the team and the club.
Chiefs Rugby Board Chair Bill Osbourne closed the evening by presenting McMillan with the highly prestigious Tohunga title which honours someone who has shown determination, humility, and strength both within the game and in how they carry themselves every day.
“Clayton has earned respect not just through what he has achieved, but in how he’s gone about it. With integrity and purpose. He has the highest winning percentage of any Chiefs Head Coach, has reconnected our club with its Pou, and has brough playoff matches back to FMG Stadium Waikato after a decade without one.”
The ceremony was once again live-streamed to Gallagher Chiefs season members on Chiefs Pass, continuing the club’s commitment to inclusivity and connection with its dedicated supporter base.
Gallagher Chiefs 2025 Award Winners
Personality of the Year, Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi
Mana Kotiate, Dana Heta
Fans Player of the Year, Damian McKenzie
U20s Player of the Year, Jack Wiseman
Players Player of the Year, Quinn Tupaea
Kotahitanga award, Clayton McMillan
Rookie of the Year, Leroy Carter
Player of the Year, George Dyer
Tohunga, Clayton McMillan
Watch the full awards exclusively on Chiefs Pass
