Campaign launched to rename ‘Man of Steel’ award

A campaign has been launched to rename the Man of Steel award and supporters of all Super League clubs are being asked for their backing.

Fans Graham Middleton, Paul Whitaker, Debs Fitzgerald and Alison Watson want the title of the accolade, which represents the best player in the Super League, to reflect its worthiness.They've called on the RFL and Super League to rename it the 'Steve Prescott Man of Steel award' in honour of the cancer campaigner and former Hull FC, St Helens and Wakefield great.

Graham Middleton commented: “We have a true hero in our midst, a man who played our great game with true professionalism, a man who has been exemplary not only throughout his playing career but also off the field. He is respected by supporters of all rugby league clubs and not just the ones he represented.

“We have an annual awards dinner at which the player voted for by his peers as the most consistent in the league over the season is awarded the 'Man Of Steel award'. We would urge the powers that be to rename the award in Steve Prescott's honour. We have the Lance Todd trophy, the Harry Sunderland award and the Albert Goldthorpe Medal and we believe this would be a fitting and lasting tribute.”

Fans are being urged to sign a petition at and the group have already been in contact with Super League and Championship clubs, as well as the RFL. To sign the petition click here.