Wigan Warriors have once again demonstrated their dominance in the Super League by clinching virtually every major accolade on the night. Brad O'Neill was officially crowned the 2026 Man of Steel, the league’s most prestigious individual award, while forward Jenna Foubister earned the coveted Woman of Steel trophy. The celebrations didn’t stop there – both of the club’s head coaches were also recognised for their outstanding work.
Men’s coach Matt Peet and women’s coach Denis Betts each collected a Coach of the Year award, capping off a night that highlighted Wigan’s all‑encompassing excellence across both the men’s and women’s competitions. O'Neill’s journey to the top of the sport has been nothing short of spectacular. The 24‑year‑old hooker, known for his ferocious tackling, razor‑sharp passing and remarkable resilience, has become a cornerstone of Matt Peet’s side.
His performances throughout the season helped Wigan secure the League Leaders’ Shield and a triumphant run in the Challenge Cup, and the team pushed all the way to the Grand Final, falling just 80 minutes short of the ultimate prize. In addition to the Man of Steel, O'Neill already collected the Rugby League Writers and Broadcasters Association (RLWBA) Player of the Year awards, underscoring how consistently dominant he has been. In the final voting he edged out his own teammate Adam Keighran and Leeds Rhinos’ dynamic back Lachie Miller, confirming his status as the league’s premier playmaker. Jenna Foubister’s achievement mirrored O’Neill’s in many ways.
The powerful forward out‑performed fellow Wigan candidates Eva Hunter and Megan Williams to claim the Woman of Steel award, a testament to her influence on the women’s side of the club. Foubister’s blend of physicality, work‑rate and leadership has been instrumental in propelling the Warriors’ women’s team to the forefront of the competition, and the accolade recognises her as the standout performer of the season. The night also shone a spotlight on the rising stars of the game.
St Helens’ Harry Robertson was named Super League Young Player of the Year for the second consecutive season, a clear indication that his talent is only beginning to blossom. In the women’s game, Leeds’ promising youngster Connie Boyd took home the Women’s Young Player of the Year award, signalling a bright future for the sport’s next generation.
Additionally, Halifax Panthers’ Rob Hawkins was honoured as the 2026 Wheels of Steel winner, a special recognition that celebrates his contributions on and off the field. Looking ahead, all eyes now turn to the Grand Final, scheduled for Saturday 3 October at 6 p.m., with a live broadcast on Sky Sports. Old Trafford – affectionately known as the ‘Theatre of Dreams’ – will once again host the marquee event, continuing a tradition that dates back to 1998 when the final first moved to Manchester United’s iconic stadium. Aside from the pandemic‑forced relocation to Hull in 2020, the Grand Final has remained a fixture at Old Trafford, providing a spectacular backdrop for the climax of the Super League season.
Historically, ten different clubs have contested the Grand Final, but only five have ever lifted the trophy: Wigan Warriors, St Helens, Bradford Bulls, Leeds Rhinos and Hull Kingston Rovers. This year’s lineup promises a fresh twist, as it will be the first Grand Final that does not feature any of the traditional powerhouses – Wigan, Leeds or St Helens – on the field. One of the two remaining contenders, Warrington Wolves or Wakefield Trinity, is poised to break the pattern and join the elite group of champions, adding another chapter to the competition’s storied legacy. The build‑up to the final has been intense, with both finalists having navigated a grueling regular season and a series of high‑stakes playoff matches.
Fans are encouraged to tune in early; Sky Sports will begin coverage at 5 p.m., providing pre‑match analysis, interviews and behind‑the‑scenes features that set the stage for the showdown. For those watching online, the broadcaster recommends using the Chrome browser to ensure the best video playback experience.
Beyond the on‑field drama, the awards night itself highlighted the depth of talent within the Wigan organisation. By securing both the Man and Woman of Steel titles, as well as the Coach of the Year honours for both the men’s and women’s squads, the club has underscored its commitment to excellence across the board. The dual success also reflects a broader trend in rugby league: the growing parity and visibility of the women’s game, which now enjoys the same level of recognition and celebration as its male counterpart. In summary, the 2026 Super League awards have painted a vivid picture of a club at the peak of its powers.
Brad O'Neill’s Man of Steel triumph, Jenna Foubister’s Woman of Steel accolade, and the dual coaching awards for Matt Peet and Denis Betts all signal that Wigan Warriors are not just a dominant force this season but a benchmark for future generations. As the Grand Final approaches, supporters can anticipate an electrifying climax to a year filled with record‑breaking performances, historic milestones and unforgettable moments that will be remembered long after the final whistle at Old Trafford.