2025 has unveiled Hilton Chesterson as the Newcastle Knights' dynamic new forward. A athletic 23-year-old, Chesterson brings spark to a squad under coach Adam O'Brien and skipper Kalyn Ponga. While Newcastle's pack was already respected, Chesterson's speed, off-loads and steel have lifted their engine room.

Singleton born, Chesterson first made waves get more info at Maitland Pickers, later securing a scholarship to St Joseph's College, Hunters Hill. At sixteen he joined Newcastle's development system, racing through SG Ball and NSW Cup. A viral moment arrived in a 2024 trial versus Cronulla when he smashed prop Braden Hamlin-Uele. Come Round 3, 2025, he was starting in jersey 11 for the full 80.

The numbers confirm the eye test. Chesterson averages 102 running metres, 35 tackles and three busts per match while keeping 93 percent tackle efficiency. Four tries are on the board, one a dazzling 30-metre sprint versus Manly. Coach O'Brien calls him "a dream player". "Raw talent, massive ceiling," O'Brien added. Teammates echo the praise, noting his tireless motor lifts training standards.

Chesterson's humility resonates. He fronts mental health sessions, lingers to greet fans and has already fronted a popular television campaign alongside his blue heeler Rusty, sealing his status as Hunter favourite.

Newcastle locked up Chesterson until 2029, a statement of intent for a regional powerhouse desperate to end its title drought. The faithful see him as the heartbeat of the project, a Hunter son poised to lead them back to grand-final glory.