PROP IS BEST FOR KNIGHTS

JACOB Saifiti has been hailed as the future of the Newcastle Knights after the hardworking prop defied the odds to win the prestigious Danny Buderus Medal as the Knights’ Player of the Year.

The award comes as recognition for a standout and consistent campaign for the frontrower, who started the season off the bench before finishing with 23 games (12 starting), three tries and an impressive 2437 running metres.

Knights club legend and general manager of football Danny Buderus said Saifiti’s award was a terrific milestone in the young forward’s career.

“I’m so pleased for Jacob and it’s great to see a hardworking middle win such a prestigious honour,” Buderus said. “This is just reward for his hard work and determination. His go-forward and team-first mentality has seen him become one of the most respected players in our club.”