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'Dull' Dally M Awards need an overhaul, says NRL great
Charles Goodsir • October 2nd, 2025 3:38 pm
Rugby league great Brett Kimmorley has called on the NRL to make changes to the Dally M Awards ceremony after a “flat” 2025 edition.
Sydney Roosters captain James Tedesco took home his second Dally M medal with 67 votes; 22 votes ahead of second placed Nathan Cleary.
Kimmorley cited a number of factors for what he described as a “dull” evening which included the lack of entertainment and the continued use of Randwick Racecourse as the event location.
“I thought the room was pretty flat to be honest,” Kimmorley said on SEN 1170.
“I went last year and this year and the excitement was much lower this year.
“It felt like everyone just wanted to get in, get the awards done and get out.
“Maybe it was the fact that we knew James Tedesco was going to win it from Round 17.
“At the end of the count, they didn’t even go through the last three rounds because Tedesco was that far in front.
“Maybe a change is required because we’ve been in the same room for the past few years now.
“Before they go live on TV, they do a lot of other awards.
“The whole atmosphere in the room was flat. It was quiet and there was limited excitement in the room at night.
“Well done to the award winners but I think we need to look at changes.
“Maybe there can be a concert in the middle or kids run out with some flags or just something.
“Give us a bit of entertainment on the night.
“Give us a bit of entertainment on the night.
“You ask me the question and honestly, I thought the night was a bit flat.”
Tedesco was also awarded the 2025 Dally M Captain of the Year. The Roosters completed the double with Roosters’ NRLW skipper Isabelle Kelly named the NRLW Captain of the Year.
Roosters centre Robert Toia was awarded the 2025 Dally M Rookie of the Year.
Canberra Raiders coach Ricky Stuart was announced as the 2025 Dally M Coach of the year.
