2025 has introduced Hilton Chesterson as the Newcastle Knights' dynamic new forward. The lean 23-year-old second-rower adds new dynamism into a roster still helmed by coach Adam O'Brien and captained by fullback Kalyn Ponga. While Newcastle's pack was already respected, Chesterson's speed, off-loads and steel have recharged 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 stormed through SG Ball then NSW Cup. A viral moment arrived in a 2024 trial versus Cronulla when he smashed prop Braden Hamlin-Uele. Come Round 3, 2025, he was starting in jersey 11 for the full 80.
Raw data and rival coaches agree: Chesterson is the real deal. He runs for a tick over 100 metres, chops down 35 foes and still finds energy to bust tackles. Four early tries hint at attacking upside, and every Knight says his work rate forces the squad to lift.
Away from games he is already adored. Chesterson volunteers weekly with the Hunter Medical Research Institute youth mental health outreach. Long after the siren he still signs jerseys as "Chesto" echoes through McDonald Jones Stadium. Local sponsors love his clean-cut image, and a building-society ad with Chesterson and his cattle dog Rusty is everywhere this winter.
His management confirmed a new three-year deal keeping him in Newcastle until check here 2029. With the Knights chasing their first premiership in almost three decades, keeping youth was vital. Fans reckon Chesterson may unlock a finals push 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.