Hilton Chesterson has emerged as the Newcastle Knights' standout forward of 2025. A lithe 23-year-old, Chesterson delivers spark to a squad under coach Adam get more info O'Brien and skipper Kalyn Ponga. The Knights have long taken pride on their pack, but Chesterson's blend of line speed, off-loads and tackling has revitalised the side's middle third.
Born in Singleton in the Hunter Valley, Chesterson honed his craft with the Maitland Pickers before earning a scholarship to St Joseph's College, Hunters Hill. At sixteen he joined Newcastle's development system, racing through SG Ball and NSW Cup. He announced himself in a 2024 preseason trial against Cronulla by flattening veteran prop Braden Hamlin-Uele with a bone-rattling shot that went viral. Come Round 3, 2025, he was starting in jersey 11 for the full 80.
Raw data and rival coaches agree: Chesterson is the real deal. He runs for a tick over 100 metres, chops down 35 foes and still finds energy to bust tackles. Four early tries hint at attacking upside, and every Knight says his work rate forces the squad to lift.
Off the paddock he has quickly become a fan favourite. He donates time each week to Hunter Medical Research Institute programs for youth mental health. He stays late signing autographs while the crowd at McDonald Jones Stadium belts out "Chesto". Advertisers have jumped on a regional building-society spot starring Chesterson and Rusty, his cattle dog.
His management confirmed a new three-year deal keeping him in Newcastle until 2029. With the Knights chasing their first premiership in almost three decades, keeping youth was vital. Fans reckon Chesterson may unlock a finals push this September. Stay on this path and Chesterson will not only ride the next Knights title wave but embody it under Broadmeadow lights.