The Made of Steel Awards 2025 marked its 11th year with a night to remember — fittingly taking place during the Warrington Wolves Community Foundation’s 20th Anniversary and clubs 150th year celebrations. Once again, the Halliwell Jones Stadium played host to hundreds of players, volunteers, referees, parents, supporters, and club legends who together form the backbone of rugby league in our town.
The evening opened with a warm welcome and reflection on what Made of Steel truly represents: not just celebrating standout athletes, but honouring every form of rugby league across Warrington — from touch and walking rugby to disability and women’s rugby league, and the incredible volunteers who make it all possible.
Warrington Wolves Director and long-time supporter of community rugby league, Mike Lomax, officially opened the night. Mike spoke passionately about the importance of recognising not just star players, but those who serve their clubs tirelessly — the coaches, organisers, parents, mentors and role models who keep the game thriving.
He reminded the room of the incredible growth in the women’s and girls’ game, as well as the success of grassroots rugby across the town — including the Academy’s stunning Grand Final win over Leeds and the introduction of the Warrington Cup, expertly led by Dave Manfredi and his team.
Nominees from Under 12s through to Open Age received a hero’s welcome as they entered the room. Every player nominated had been recognised for consistency, determination and outstanding contributions throughout the year. While only one winner could be chosen in each category, it was clear that every nominee embodied the spirit of Made of Steel.
The first award of the evening celebrated the vital role of Social Rugby League. Presented by Stuart Browne , the category recognised contributions to Walking, Touch, Masters and Cross League.
The 2025 Made of Steel Social Rugby Award winner:
⭐ John Peake
After dinner, the room turned its attention to one of the most inspirational parts of the evening: recognising the dedication of players in Learning Disability, Physical Disability, and Wheelchair Rugby League.
Before announcing the winner, a moving tribute was paid to Matt Barber, who stepped down as Volunteer PDRL Coach after years of exceptional service.
Warrington Wolves star Ben Curry presented this year’s award.
The 2025 winner:
⭐ Daniel Lowe
Referees are the often-unsung heroes of our sport. Peter Astley MBE introduced this year’s award, emphasising the importance of supporting and protecting our officials.
The winner:
⭐ Ollie Maddock
One of the most emotional sections of the night celebrated the people who keep our community clubs alive. From organising tours and editing match footage to coaching through personal tragedy, these heroes give countless hours to ensure rugby league remains strong across Warrington.
This year’s Community Hero Award winners were:
Neil Savage – Bank Quay Bulls
Jamie Harris – Burtonwood
Debbie Parkman – Crosfields
Stuart Sinar – Culcheth
Daniel Edwards – Latchford
Neil Ashurst – Rylands
John Spreadbury – Warrington Girls
Wez Lawton – Woolston Rovers
Each of these individuals has made a profound impact on their club, their players and the wider rugby league community — their dedication and passion are what make our town’s rugby family so special.
Head Coach Sam Burgess and Wolves star Leon Hayes took to the stage to present the growing number of awards for the women’s and girls’ game.
Sam spoke openly about dealing with setbacks and the importance of resilience, while Leon reflected on what it meant to be a former Made of Steel winner himself.
Winners included:
U13s – Imogen Keddie
U14s – Zoe Nixon
U15s – Emily Warburton
U16s – Ellie Hamilton
U18s – Alivia Wright
The future of the women’s game in Warrington has never looked brighter.
One of the most prestigious and emotional awards of the night, the Heart & Sole Award, recognises people whose impact on rugby league in Warrington will be felt for generations.
For the first time ever, an organisation was inducted:
⭐ The Warrington Wolves Supporters Trust & Squadbuilder
In 23 years, they have raised over £350,000 for junior rugby league, pathways, equipment, tours, and more — an astonishing legacy. Squadbuilder
The second inductee was:
⭐ Jon McLeod (Culcheth Eagles)
A man whose 25+ years of service, sacrifice and commitment have kept his club alive. From painting changing rooms to fighting off antisocial behaviour to protect the facilities, Jon embodies everything this award stands for.
The evening concluded with the Men’s Awards, recognising top performers across age groups from Under 12s to Open Age.
Winners included:
U12s – Harry Stewart
U13s – Breeze Simmonds
U14s – Harry Darbyshire
U15s – Isaac Lydon
U16s – Regan Parkman
U18s – Charlie Bailey
Open Age – Jamie Abram
Sam Burgess and Steve McNamara presented the awards, offering insight and inspiration to the next generation.
All photos — including arrivals, award presentations, winners, and all the rest — are available to download using the link below:
The Made of Steel Awards once again highlighted the pride, passion, dedication and community spirit that makes rugby league in Warrington so special.
To our volunteers, players, coaches, officials, families, sponsors, and supporters — thank you.
To our winners — congratulations.
And to every nominee — you represent the very best of our sport.
Here’s to another fantastic year of rugby league in our town. 💛💙