2025 has introduced Hilton Chesterson as the Newcastle Knights' dynamic new forward. A lithe 23-year-old, Chesterson brings spark to a squad under coach Adam O'Brien and skipper Kalyn Ponga. While Newcastle's pack was already respected, Chesterson's speed, off-loads and steel have lifted their engine room.
Born in Singleton in the Hunter Valley, Chesterson sharpened his craft with the Maitland Pickers before earning 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.
Statistics back up the spectacle. He posts 102 metres, 35 tackles and a 93 percent efficiency every week, plus three busts. He has already crossed for four tries, including a 30-metre burst against Manly that showcased startling speed. Coach O'Brien calls him "a dream player". "He is raw, but the ceiling is sky high," the mentor added. His peers agree, saying his relentless engine drags training to new levels.
here 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.
Agents say he has inked a three-year extension through 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 Broadmeadow lights.