The Dolphins are proud to announce Jack Bostock as the club’s nomination for the 2026 Ken Stephen Medal – Man of the Year award.
This award recognises the efforts of an NRL player who has not only achieved on the field but has committed time off the field to community projects, charity work, youth development and community support.
As part of his nomination, Jack has also been named to the 2026 NRL Community Team of the Year.
On the field, Jack Bostock is building an exciting NRL career. Off the field, he is making an even greater impact through his genuine commitment to people, community, and helping those around him thrive.
It's definitely something that I take pride in, getting around to the community events... it just makes you love the game more
Jack Bostock
Since the Dolphins’ inaugural season in 2023, Jack has been active within the community and enthusiastic about giving his time to club community initiatives. Whether visiting schools, hospitals, nursing homes, charity partners, or community events, Jack’s support of the Dolphins’ community hasn’t wavered.
Bostock on giving back to the community
Jack’s passion for helping others extends beyond football. Through his popular “BossyCooks” social media platform, he shares his love of cooking and uses food to bring people together. He has also worked with young people at Chameleon Housing, teaching them practical cooking skills and helping build confidence and independence through simple, affordable meals.
What truly sets Jack apart is his authenticity. Long before reaching the NRL, his community values were fostered by giving back to his junior club, the Shellharbour Stingrays, through fundraising and other club-awareness initiatives.
Working as an NRL Game Development Officer, he visited with schools across the Illawarra, mentoring young people and encouraging healthy lifestyles through sport. Even after moving away from his family at just 19 years old to pursue his NRL dream, Jack continued to seek opportunities to contribute, including working as a disability support worker during his early years in Queensland.
More recently, Jack has demonstrated extraordinary leadership through his support of close friend Jacek “Yak” McLaurin following a life-changing spinal injury. Through fundraising events, community engagement, awareness campaigns, and personal support, Jack has helped inspire a movement that has raised more than $600,000 to assist Jacek with specialised treatment.
He's been there for me, he's been there for my family... He's put his hand up to help in any way he can.
Jacek McLaurin
His efforts have united communities, sporting organisations, and individuals around a common cause, creating a lasting impact far beyond the rugby league field.
Jack embodies the NRL values of being inclusive, positive, united, and disciplined. He welcomes people from all backgrounds, inspires those around him with his positive energy, brings communities together for meaningful causes, and consistently shows up to support others year after year.
Jack leads with humility, compassion, and action, making a genuine difference in the lives of countless people.
Ken Stephen's Medal fan voting is now open and ends on 20th July. Vote for Jack Now.
