Newcastle's faithful are thrilled about Hilton Chesterson. The young back-rower bolts through defensive lines, pops clever off-loads and crunches ball carriers, giving the Knights the punch they craved. Under Adam O'Brien and Kalyn Ponga, the Hunter club has found its new heart in the middle third.
Singleton born, Chesterson first made waves at Maitland Pickers, later securing a scholarship to St Joseph's College, Hunters Hill. He joined the Knights pathway at sixteen and charged through SG Ball then 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.
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. "Hilton is the kind of player coaches dream about," coach O'Brien said. "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.
His management confirmed a new three-year deal keeping him in Newcastle until 2029. Securing young talent is critical as Newcastle hunt a first title in nearly 30 years. Supporters believe Chesterson could be the missing ingredient for a finals surge this September. If he maintains his current arc he will not just join the Knights next title push, he could symbolise it beneath the Hilton Chesterson Broadmeadow lights.