Who Is Ryan Jackson, The New Australian Prop Joining York Knights For The Super League?

There's some big news coming out of the York Knights camp, and it’s a name fans are going to want to remember: Ryan Jackson. The club has just announced the signing of this powerhouse player for their 2026 squad, and it’s a move that has been made possible thanks to the fantastic support from Squad Builder. But who exactly is this new face heading to York? Let’s get to know the young Australian talent who’s about to take on the English game.

What's The Story With Ryan Jackson?

Okay, so imagine being 21 and getting the chance to move across the world to play the sport you love. That’s exactly what’s happening for Ryan Jackson. He’s an Australian player who’s built a reputation for being a tough, no-nonsense prop. For anyone new to rugby league, a prop is one of the forwards who does a lot of the heavy lifting. They’re the ones in the thick of the action, tackling hard and running the ball straight into the opposition line. They are the engine of the team.

Last year, he was playing for the Central Queensland Capras, a well-known team in Australia. He didn't just make up the numbers either; he played in 14 matches and even managed to score three tries, which is pretty decent for a forward whose main job is to tackle and make ground. Before that, he was making waves at the Wynnum Manly Seagulls in some of Australia’s top youth competitions. His talent didn't go unnoticed, and in 2023 he was snapped up by the NRL club Dolphins.

Being part of an NRL club's development list is a big deal. The NRL is Australia's top league, so being on their radar means you’re seen as a player with massive potential to make it to the very top. This Australian is definitely one to watch.

A Rising Star From Queensland

If you know anything about Australian rugby league, you’ll know that Queensland is a place that produces some of the best players in the world. And it turns out, Ryan Jackson is a product of that very system. He’s not just any player from down under; he has represented his home state, Queensland, which is a massive honour.

He was selected for the Under 18’s Emerging Origin squad. Think of the State of Origin series in Australia as the biggest rivalry in the sport. Being picked for an 'Emerging Origin' squad means the top coaches saw him as a future star for Queensland, a huge stamp of approval.

He didn’t stop there, either. He also pulled on the famous maroon jersey for the Queensland Under 19s. Playing at that level shows that he can handle pressure and perform on a big stage. He is described as a tall, strong running forward, which is exactly the kind of player who can make a real impact. He’s built for the tough and tumble world of professional footy, and his background in the Queensland system has prepared him for the challenge ahead.

What The Coach Thinks About The Move

It’s one thing for fans to get excited, but what does the person in charge think? Well, York Knights coach Mark Applegarth seems absolutely chuffed with his new signing. He knows all about Jackson’s background and is keen to see him get stuck into the English game.

Here's what Mark Applegarth had to say:

"I'm really excited to see how he goes in England. He's obviously got a good pedigree coming through the Queensland age group ranks. He's a big body, loves doing the tough stuff, exactly what we need, and at 21 he’s got the best years in front of him. I'm looking forward to seeing how he goes in the English game."

Breaking that down, the coach is highlighting a few key things. The mention of "pedigree" means Jackson has a proven track record of success and development. The fact that he "loves doing the tough stuff" confirms he's the right kind of prop, someone who won't shy away from a challenge. And at just 21, his potential is huge. He's not just a player for now; he's an investment for the future of the York Knights.

Jackson's Big Jump To The Super League

So, what does the man himself think about packing his bags and heading to York? Ryan Jackson is buzzing. He sees this as more than just a new contract; it’s a chance to be part of something genuinely special with the York Knights.

He explained his excitement:

"With the club heading into Super League, it’s a chance to be a part of history and a part of something special."

This shows he’s not just coming for a season or two; he wants to help the club achieve its biggest goals. The move into the Super League is a massive step, and having players with his ambition will be key.

But it's not all about the on-field stuff. When asked what he was looking forward to the most, his answer was brilliant and very Australian:
"What I’m looking forward to the most is the mateship. Being far away from home and enjoying footy with good mates is something special."

This idea of mateship – of building strong friendships and a tight-knit team spirit – is really important. It suggests he’ll be a great presence in the dressing room and will fit right in with the culture at the club.

A Signing Made Possible By The Fans

This whole move wouldn’t have happened without one very important group of people: the fans. The signing of Ryan Jackson was made possible with the help of Squad Builder. For those who might not know, Squad Builder is a fan-led initiative where supporters chip in to create a fund that the club can use to strengthen the team. It’s a direct way for fans to contribute to the club's success.

Bringing a player with Jackson’s background – from his time with the Central Queensland Capras, his development at the Wynnum Manly Seagulls, and being on the books of NRL club Dolphins – is a statement of intent from the York Knights.

It shows the club is serious about competing at the highest level. And it’s a brilliant reminder that when the club and its supporters work together, incredible things can happen. This is a signing for the fans, by the fans, and everyone has a right to be very excited about seeing what this young Australian prop can do in the English game.