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News • September 14th, 2026
|The York Knights have made an exciting addition to their squad by signing experienced prop forward Blake Lawrie on a two-year deal, with an option for a third year. This announcement comes as the Knights aim to strengthen their team for the upcoming seasons, and Lawrie's extensive experience in the National Rugby League (NRL) will certainly be an asset.
Blake Lawrie's Background
At just 29 years old, Lawrie brings a wealth of experience to the Knights, having played over 170 games in the NRL for the St. George Illawarra Dragons. His career began when he made his debut in 2017, and since then, he has established himself as a reliable front-rower. Lawrie also has a background in representative rugby, having played for the Junior Kangaroos while coming through the ranks at St. George.
Impressive Stats from 2023
Lawrie's performance in the 2023 season was nothing short of remarkable. He averaged an impressive 135 run metres per game and showcased his tackling skills with a remarkable 94% efficiency rate. These statistics are not just numbers; they reflect his ability to contribute significantly to his team's performance. His hard work and dedication were recognised when he was named the supporters’ Player of the Year, highlighting his popularity among fans.
What Lawrie Brings to the Knights
While Lawrie primarily plays as a front-rower, he also has the versatility to play as a loose forward, giving the Knights additional options on the field. His leadership qualities are expected to play a crucial role in the team's development. Lawrie expressed his enthusiasm about joining the Knights:
"I’m really excited to be joining York in 2027. It’s a club with plenty of ambition and I’m looking forward to being part of what they’re building."
Head Coach's Perspective
Knights head coach, Mark Applegarth, shared his excitement about Lawrie’s signing, saying,
"Delighted to have Blake over the line, he’s a proven top-level middle with over 170 NRL games. Not only will he bring a high standard on the park but his leadership will be vital off it as well as we look to push to the next level."
Applegarth's comments underline the importance of Lawrie’s role, both on and off the pitch, as the Knights aim for greater heights in the league.
Support from Squad Builder
This signing was made possible thanks to the support from the Knights' Squad Builder initiative, which aims to enhance the team's competitiveness by investing in top talent. The initiative has been instrumental in attracting players like Lawrie, helping the Knights build a strong squad capable of challenging for titles in the future.
