Hanley domintated the award during the 80s

But Sculthorpe is the first player since the inception of the awards in 1977 to have won in consecutive years.

Sculthorpe dedicated his award to his St Helens team-mates.

"It's great to be the first person to win twice, but a lot of credit has got to go down to playing in a great team."

"It's enjoyable going to Saints. It's a big thing when you can say you enjoy going to work."

Sculthorpe's coach at St Helens feels that the best is still to come from his player.

"He's the best player in this country and, if you talk to any Australian, they rate him very highly," said Millward.

"If they picked a world team now, he could definitely put his hand up.

"I think you're still 12 months away from seeing the end product and that shows you how far he can go.

"He is one talented kid and it's great that he'll be here as long as I am.

Neil Kelly, who guided the Widnes Vikings to a mid-table position in their first Super League season, was named coach of the year.