UNSW Elite Athletes Shine at NRL Academic & Excellence Awards

Two of UNSW’s Elite Athlete Program (EAP) members, Ethan Bullemor (Manly Waringah Sea Eagles, Bachelor of Advanced Economics/MBA) and Sandon Smith (Sydney Roosters, Bachelor of Construction Management), have been recognised on the national stage for their dedication both on and off the field.

At the 2025 NRL Academic & Excellence Awards, run by League Ahead, both student-athletes were named to the NRL Academic Team of the Year. The awards celebrate players who lead in culture and community, commit to education and vocational growth, and drive player-led initiatives that create a lasting impact beyond the jersey.

Bullemor went one step further, taking out the NRL Academic Player of the Year, the night’s highest honour.

This recognition continues a strong run of success for UNSW’s elite athletes in rugby league, with Jacob Preston (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs) also earning selection in the 2024 Academic Team of the Year.

Speaking with Manly Waringah Sea Eagles media after the awards, Bullemor highlighted the importance of balancing study with a demanding professional career: “It’s incredibly important to have study outside of footy as it provides perspective and balance. Footy can be pretty intense and all-consuming, so it’s good to have an escape from all of that.”

Both athletes have had standout seasons in 2025. Bullemor celebrated his 100-game milestone in the NRL this year and signed a new four-year contract with the Sea Eagles, while Smith has been instrumental in helping the Sydney Roosters surge towards a finals campaign with several big performances.

These achievements underscore the impact of UNSW’s Elite Athlete Program, which continues to support student-athletes in balancing academic success with sporting excellence.

Congratulations to Ethan and Sandon on their outstanding achievements. A great reminder of the value of education, balance, and leadership in shaping the next generation of sporting role models.