The tragic death of a family member in Dubbo made Connor Watson want to do more for his community and that work was recognised on Sunday.
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The Dubbo-born Newcastle Knights utility won the prestigious Ken Stephens Medal, awarded to the NRL player adjudged the outstanding contributor in the community.
Watson and his family have been a driving force behind the Cultural Choice Association, which supports the prevention of youth suicide among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.
It was set-up after a teenage cousin of Watson's in Dubbo took his own life.
This year Watson led the Boots for Brighter Futures, with several Youth Justice Centres creating artwork for 56 pairs of boots, which were worn during Indigenous Round and later auctioned off to raise funds.
"Our inspiration for the Cultural Choice Association (CCA) came about through my family's journey", Watson told the Knights' website.
"In 2017, I lost my cousin at the age of 17 to youth suicide.
"As a family faced with the rising tragedy of youth suicide (in particular Indigenous Youth suicide) it was at this point that the focus and passion to make a difference in the lives of young aboriginal people gained impetus and CCA was established.
"The Boots for Brighter Future initiative began three years ago with dad painting my boots as a way for us to celebrate our culture, when I approached the Knights about doing the whole team they were really supportive and got behind us and all of the boys were keen to be a part of it too."
The award was announced prior to Sunday's grand final kicking off at ANZ Stadium and NRL CEO Andrew Abdo Abdo said "Connor has displayed leadership beyond his years" and has made a big impact on society that will benefit people for years to come.
