From 2026, the NPL Men’s and NPL Women’s Player of the Year awards will be named in honour of a great of the game in Queensland, with fans invited to submit their nominations for the naming of the awards.

Fan submissions will help to determine a shortlist of names for both awards, with these finalists progressing to a public vote to be undertaken during the Christmas period. 

Alongside fan votes, the below criteria will also be used to determine the NPL Men’s and NPL Women’s Player of the Year awards:

1. Contribution to the NPL Era
   Players who have made a significant and positive impact on the National Premier Leagues (NPL) competition in Queensland, demonstrated through: 

• Outstanding on-field performances, consistency, and professionalism. 
• Leadership, sportsmanship, and influence on the league’s identity or standards. 
• A sustained presence or legacy within the contemporary NPL environment (e.g. multiple seasons of excellence, club leadership, developmental influence).
   

2. Contribution to Queensland’s Top-Tier Competition in Previous Eras
   Recognising that the NPL succeeded long-standing state league structures, nominees from pre-NPL competitions (e.g.Queensland State League, Brisbane Premier League, Queensland First Division) may also be considered if they: 

• Demonstrated exceptional and enduring performance during their era. 
• Contributed meaningfully to the competitiveness, culture, or evolution of top-tier football in Queensland. 
• Retain a legacy that remains relevant or influential in the modern game.
   

3. Contribution to Football in Queensland More Broadly
   Nominees may be considered based on their wider impact on the sport across the state, including:

• Representation in Queensland or Australian teams at elite levels that raised the profile of football in the state. 
• Recognisable contributions as role models, ambassadors, or leaders within Queensland football. 
• Long-term influence on development pathways, community engagement, or the growth of the sport.
   

4. Alignment With the Values of the NPL and Football Queensland
   The individual’s career and character should reflect the values that underpin the NPL and Football Queensland, including:

• Integrity, fairness, and respect. 
• Commitment to the growth and progression of football in Queensland. 
• A positive long-term reputation within the football community.
   

5. Lasting Legacy and Contemporary Relevance
   The namesake should: 

• Represent a legacy that endures within modern NPL Queensland environments, even if their playing career predates the NPL. 
• Be viewed as an aspirational figure for current and future NPL players. 
• Hold broad recognition and respect across the Queensland football community. 

Click here to submit your nominations now