Cody Walker was last night (Tuesday) named Rookie of the Year at the Rugby League Players' Association awards presentation night.
Walker made his NRL debut with the South Sydney Rabbitohs in Round 1, 2016 against the Sydney Roosters. At 26 years old, the versatile player made an impact in Souths attack taking on a number roles in the backline including five-eighth, halfback, fullback and wing.
Congratulations to Rookie of the Year, after an amazing 2016 season, Cody Walker! #ThePlayersChampion pic.twitter.com/dRFG8JFwMf
— RLPA (@RLPlayers) September 13, 2016
Walker had an overall great performance throughout the season scoring eight tries in his debut year. He clocked up the highest Rabbitohs statistics with 12 try assists, 15 line breaks and 80 tackle breaks. On top of this, he made 2022 run metres over 225 runs and 1635 kick metres through 73 kicks. He also finished third overall in the NRL alongside Aaron Gray for one-on-one steals.
Walker extended his contract with South Sydney in June and will continue to run on for the Red and Green until the end of 2018 with Head Coach Michael Maguire pleased with his decision to stay.
“Cody has shown that hard work and persistence pays off,” Coach Maguire said.
“We have seen him grow with his opportunities in first grade and I believe he has a lot more growth in him as he progresses in his career.
“He’s a very versatile player that has shown he has what it takes to play regular first grade football and we’re all looking forward to continuing to work with him on his game over the next few seasons.”
