Dynamic fullback Reece Walsh burst onto the scene in 2021, putting together a remarkable first season in the NRL for the New Zealand Warriors.
Walsh’s campaign was considered the most dominant of any first-year player, and as a result he has claimed the MEGT Australia Rookie of the Year award, edging out Roosters playmaker Sam Walker.
With his position already held by superstar Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, Walsh was made to wait until Round 7 for a debut, but he wouldn’t look back from that moment onwards.
Such was Walsh’s form, that Tuivasa-Sheck moved to a wing to accommodate the 19-year-old knowing he’d be the club’s lynchpin in years to come.
In 16 games, Walker scored nine tries, kicked 21 goals and had 11 try assists.
His form was so strong, that he was even selected to make his debut at state level for Queensland before his 10th first-grade game, but unfortunately an injury at training ruled him out of the clash.
In winning the MEGT Australia Rookie of The Year, Walsh becomes the second consecutive Warrior to take the honours, following Eliesa Katoa’s success in 2020.
Walsh’s 2021 season will go down as one of the most dominant rookie campaigns in recent memory.
He looks to be a future star of the NRL competition.
