Selfless Sharks captain Cameron McInnes is in the mix to win the prestigious Ken Stephen Medal after being announced as part of the NRL Community Team of the Year for his off-field impact.
A leader in every aspect, McInnes could join teammates Nicho Hynes (2024) and Ronaldo Mulitalo (2021) in receiving the NRL's greatest community honour.
The annual Ken Stephen Medal fan vote is now open via NRL.com, with the winner to automatically earn a place as one of our finalists for the esteemed award as well as netting $1000 for their junior rugby league club and a chosen charity.
Voting closes on Thursday, July 3 at 5pm, so have your say before it's too late!
An esteemed judging panel will decide the other three finalists.
The Ken Stephen Medal – Man of the Year was introduced in 1988, with Wayne Pearce the inaugural winner. This year marks the 37th edition of the award.
McInnes is a deserved nominee given the integral role he plays in Sharks Have Heart's community initiatives, particularly the club's disability programs.

As the father of a boy with autism, McInnes is an active participant in the all-abilities space. He often brings his son Talanoa to disability clinics and has openly spoken of their journey, helping to break down stigma and build understanding.
The 31-year-old is always willing to lend a hand, as evidenced by his voluntary attendance at Endeavour Sports High School's recent Mind Over Matter fundraising event in support of youth mental health. Not only did he turn up off his own bat, McInnes donated a signed NSW jersey worn in his State of Origin debut.
I'm honoured to be nominated for the Ken Stephen Medal, but the real reward is the opportunity to make a positive impact.
Cameron McInnes
In his role as club captain, McInnes conducts himself with the utmost professionalism and integrity. Just as he leads the charge on game day, the tough forward sets the example for his teammates when it comes to genuinely engaging with fans and using his profile to champion important causes.
McInnes has accumulated more than 40 hours of club-organised community service across the past two seasons, including a plethora of school and hospital visits, appearances at local events and junior coaching clinics.
"I'm honoured to be nominated for the Ken Stephen Medal, but the real reward is the opportunity to make a positive impact," McInnes said humbly.
"If I can inspire even one person to believe in themselves or to lend a hand to someone else, then I've done my job.
"As a father, especially with a son navigating the challenges of autism, I've come to understand the importance of support and inclusion.
"My wife (Rachel) has been instrumental in helping our son thrive, and that personal journey has deepened my commitment to giving back.

"I want every child and family to feel seen, supported and valued. Being part of the community isn't about accolades or recognition; it's about showing up, listening and lending a hand where it's needed.
"Whether it's visiting schools, supporting local initiatives, or simply having a chat with fans, these moments matter. They remind me why I fell in love with the game and the community around it."
Sharks Head of Community and Government Relations Vinh Tran urged fans to vote for McInnes and show their appreciation for a remarkable individual.
"Anyone who has met Cam will attest to him being one of the most genuine and principled people you'll ever come across," Tran said.
"The same traits that make him such a great footballer – selflessness, leadership, sacrifice and hard work – also apply to him as a man. We are incredibly fortunate to have someone of his character at the helm of our club.
"Cam never knocks back a community request. He embodies what it means to be a Ken Stephen Medal nominee and deserves the recognition that comes his way.
"After having Nicho Hynes take out the award in 2024, the club would be absolutely thrilled to go back-to-back with Cam this year. He'd be a worthy winner."
CLICK HERE to vote for Cam!