Wigan Warriors have once again demonstrated their dominance in the Super League by sweeping the most prestigious individual honours at this year’s awards ceremony. In a night that highlighted the club’s depth and talent, Brad O'Neill was officially crowned the 2026 Super League Man of Steel, while Jenna Foubister earned the coveted Woman of Steel title. The success did not stop there: both of the club’s senior coaches, Matt Peet (men’s head coach) and Denis Betts (women’s head coach), were also recognised with Coach of the Year trophies, underscoring a truly historic evening for the Wigan family.
Brad O'Neill’s rise to the pinnacle of the game has been nothing short of meteoric. The 24‑year‑old hooker, known for his ferocious tackling, razor‑sharp distribution and remarkable durability, has become a cornerstone of Matt Peet’s side. Earlier in the season O'Neill helped Wigan secure the League Leaders’ Shield and added a Challenge Cup triumph to the club’s trophy cabinet. He also played a pivotal role in the team’s march to the Grand Final, falling just 80 minutes short of the ultimate prize.
His consistency was recognised by the Rugby League Writers and Broadcasters Association (RLWBA), which already named him Player of the Year before the Man of Steel award was announced. In the final voting, O'Neill edged out fellow Warriors teammate Adam Keighran and Leeds Rhinos’ dynamic play‑maker Lachie Miller to claim the top honour.
On the women’s side, Jenna Foubister’s performances have been equally compelling. The young star navigated a competitive field that included Wigan teammates Eva Hunter and Megan Williams, emerging as the clear choice for Woman of Steel. Foubister’s blend of speed, vision and defensive tenacity has made her an indispensable figure in the Warriors’ women’s squad, and her award reflects both her individual brilliance and the growing strength of the women’s game within the club. The coaching accolades further highlighted Wigan’s all‑encompassing excellence.
Matt Peet, who has guided the men’s side to multiple silverware this season, received the Coach of the Year award for his tactical acumen, player development and ability to maintain a winning culture. Denis Betts, a stalwart of the sport and a former Great Britain captain, was honoured with the women’s Coach of the Year award, recognizing his role in nurturing talent and delivering a cohesive, high‑performing unit.
Other notable winners on the night included St Helens’ Harry Robertson, who was named Super League Young Player of the Year for the second consecutive season, confirming his status as one of the game’s brightest prospects. In the women’s game, Leeds’ rising star Connie Boyd captured the Women’s Young Player of the Year award, signalling a promising future for the club’s junior ranks. Additionally, Halifax Panthers’ Rob Hawkins was presented with the 2026 Wheels of Steel award, celebrating his contributions on the field.
Looking ahead, the focus now shifts to the Grand Final, scheduled for Saturday, 3 October, with a 6 p.m. kickoff at the iconic Old Trafford – often referred to as the "Theatre of Dreams" – and broadcast live on Sky Sports.
Since its inception in 1998, the Grand Final has traditionally been staged at Manchester United’s home ground, with the sole exception of the 2020 final, which was relocated to Hull due to extraordinary circumstances. Over the years, ten different clubs have contested the final, but only a select few have actually lifted the trophy.
The current roster of clubs that have walked through the tunnel at Old Trafford includes Wakefield, St Helens, Wigan Warriors, Bradford Bulls, Leeds Rhinos, Hull FC, Catalans Dragons, Salford Red Devils, Castleford Tigers, Warrington Wolves, and Hull KR – making a total of eleven teams that have experienced the atmosphere of a Super League Grand Final. However, success has been far more limited. To date, only Wigan, St Helens, Bradford, Leeds, and Hull KR have managed to claim the championship, leaving the remaining clubs dreaming of joining that exclusive list.
This year’s final carries an additional historical footnote: it will be the first Grand Final in which none of the traditional powerhouses – Wigan, Leeds, or St Helens – are guaranteed a place. One of the two remaining contenders, Warrington or Wakefield, is poised to become the next club to break the pattern and add its name to the roll of honour.
The anticipation is palpable, as fans across the league await a potential shift in the balance of power. For supporters planning to watch the showdown, the match will be available on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports+, with pre‑match coverage beginning at 5 p.m. The broadcast promises in‑depth analysis, player interviews and behind‑the‑scenes features that will set the stage for what is expected to be a thrilling contest. Viewers are advised to use the Chrome browser for the best video playback experience, ensuring a smooth and immersive viewing experience.
In summary, Wigan’s clean sweep of the major awards underscores the club’s comprehensive strength across both men’s and women’s rugby league. With O'Neill and Foubister leading the charge on the field and Peet and Betts guiding from the sidelines, the Warriors have set a benchmark for excellence that other clubs will be eager to emulate. As the Grand Final approaches, the excitement builds not only for the potential crowning of a new champion but also for the continued evolution of the sport, its players, and its passionate fan base.