Full Breakdown
2025 Rookie of the Year Awards: A Look at the Contenders Across Sports
9/16/2025, 1:40:00 PM
Harry Golden PBA Rookie of the Year Nominees
The 2025 Harry Golden PBA Rookie of the Year award has four nominees: Ryan Barnes, Cam Crowe, Darren Ong, and Hayden Stippich. This award honors the best first-year player in the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour, named after legendary tournament director Harry “Goose” Golden. To qualify, players must have participated in at least three events and ranked among the top five rookies in points and earnings.
Nominee Profiles
- Ryan Barnes: With 12,188 points and $113,502 in earnings, Barnes has had a standout rookie season, including a runner-up finish in the PBA Players Championship. He set a new rookie earnings record and became the first rookie to qualify for the PBA Playoffs since 2019.
- Cam Crowe: Crowe earned 4,455 points and $19,825, with a best finish of ninth in the PBA Delaware Classic. His potential was evident early in the season, averaging over 240 in several events.
- Darren Ong: Ong, who only competed in one PBA Tour event last season, made a significant impact in 2025, winning his first title and becoming the first player from Singapore to achieve this feat.
- Hayden Stippich: Stippich accumulated 3,750 points and $22,288, showcasing his skills despite setbacks due to injury. His best finish was eighth in the PBA Owen’s Illinois Classic.
Voting for the award is open to PBA members, with the winner to be announced during the week of December 9.
Rugby League Players Association Rookie of the Year
Mark Nawaqanitawase has been named the 2025 Players’ Rookie of the Year by the Rugby League Players Association (RLPA). The Sydney Roosters winger was recognized for his exceptional performance, scoring 24 tries in 23 games, making him the NRL's top try-scorer for the season.
Transition from Rugby Union
Nawaqanitawase's transition from rugby union to rugby league has been noted as extraordinary. Despite being ineligible for the Dally M Rookie of the Year due to a rule change, he was voted by his peers as the RLPA's Rookie of the Year. Clint Newton, CEO of the RLPA, praised Nawaqanitawase's performances and his ability to inspire young players.
Major League Baseball Rookie of the Year Contenders
In Major League Baseball, the race for the Rookie of the Year is heating up as the regular season approaches its end. Nick Kurtz of the Oakland Athletics is a standout candidate, boasting a .298 batting average, 32 home runs, and 80 RBIs. His performance has made him a clear favorite, with betting lines reflecting his dominance.
Cade Horton’s Emergence
Cade Horton of the Chicago Cubs is also in contention for the National League Rookie of the Year. With a record of 10-4 and a 2.70 ERA, Horton has shown remarkable improvement, particularly after recovering from a shoulder injury that limited his previous season. His recent performances have solidified his status as a leading candidate.
Conclusion
As the 2025 sports season progresses, the Rookie of the Year awards across various leagues highlight the emerging talents in their respective sports. The winners will be celebrated for their achievements, marking significant milestones in their careers.
