19-year-old Reece Walsh revealed as Rookie of the Year

NZ Warriors sensation Reece Walsh has been revealed as NRL Rookie of the Year, edging out Sydney Roosters newcomer Sam Walker.

The two youngsters were finalists for the Rugby League Players' Association award, but Walsh has been declared the winner on Channel 9's Sunday Footy Show.

Walsh says there are a lot of great rookies that came through this year and he is humbled to receive the award.

The 19-year-old signed a three-year contract with the NZ Warriors in March this year and was promoted straight into the starting line-up.

Initially, Walsh was regarded as a long-term replacement for captain Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who had announced his departure to take up a rugby contract with NZ Rugby and the Blues.

However, within a few games, he replaced Tuivasa-Sheck as a fullback and also earned a call-up to the Queensland State of Origin side.

Meanwhile, in the NRL Preliminary final this week, the Rabbitohs will meet the Sea Eagles at 9.50pm Friday while the Storm face the Eels at 6.00pm Saturday.

[Source: Newshub.co.nz]