North Queensland Cowboys fullback Lachlan Coote has been nominated for the 2017 Ken Stephen Medal.
Ronald McDonald House North Queensland is a charity close to Lachlan Coote's heart.
Father to a young son of his own, he resonates with the charity's goal to provide a home away from home for the many families who have a child being treated at the Townsville Hospital.
Over the past twelve months, Lachlan has committed countless hours to the cause. In his regular visits to the house, Lachlan makes every effort to brighten up the days of those families and children currently staying at the facility. Lachlan has become an enthusiastic spokesperson for the charity and a positive role model for the young people he interacts with.
Earlier this year, Lachlan swapped his jersey for an apron as he spent time at a local McDonald's restaurant to cook, flip, and serve Cowboys Burgers to customers - with 50c from each sale going toward McDonald's charity arm. Lachlan makes every effort to attend charity fundraisers, most recently going head-to-head with RMHNQ Charirman, Peter Rissman, in a spin class to promote the Ride for Sick Kids through Queensland.
Outside of RMHNQ, Lachlan has been actively involved in the Cowboys' Adopt-a-School program ever since he debuted with the club in 2015. Lachlan is the adopted Cowboy for Kelso State School and uses his profile to promote the importance of a healthy lifestyles, as well as assisting in the classroom with literacy activities.
Chef, cyclist, teacher, and NRL star – the versatile fullback is a worthy candidate for the Ken Stephen Medal.
The Ken Stephen Medal
Ken Stephen was an administrator who devoted 28 years to the NSWRL in various capacities. He retired shortly before his death in 1988. The Ken Stephen Medal recognises the efforts of an NRL player, who has not only achieved on the field, but has also committed time off the field to community projects.
A player is nominated by their NRL club for their involvement in charity work, youth development or community support. The nominated player will have consistently demonstrated their commitment to making a difference in their community and be seen as a role model in this area at their NRL club.
The jetwinvip.community Awards recognise Rugby League's unsung heroes for the tireless work they do to support the game they love. From volunteers and teachers, to players at a first-grade level, the awards pause to honour, reflect and congratulate those who make a positive difference for many in their communities, week after week.