Drawing upon a newfound maturity and the strength derived from his late father, Benji Marshall has delivered his best season yet, leading to his recognition as the winner of the esteemed Golden Boot Award while playing as the five-eighth for the Wests Tigers.
This distinguished award is given each year to the top international player in the sport, and based on Marshall’s remarkable 2010 performance at both the national and Test levels, it’s no surprise that he triumphed overwhelmingly.
Marshall earned 34 votes to secure the honor, with his closest competitor being fellow New Zealander Shaun Kenny Dowall, who tallied 14 votes. He becomes the first player from the Wests Tigers to receive the Golden Boot Award and only the third Kiwi to do so, following in the footsteps of Hugh McGahan and Stacey Jones.
“Winning this award after coming back from three shoulder reconstructions, claiming the Four Nations, and having my best year since joining the NRL is incredibly overwhelming,” Marshall expressed.
“I’m genuinely excited. This is something I definitely won’t take lightly.”
He reflects on the pride his late father would have felt regarding his accomplishments, especially after he passed away from cancer the previous year.
“Losing my Dad was a significant challenge. He was my biggest supporter, always watching my games and providing advice,” Marshall reminisced.
“At his funeral, I committed this year to him. Before each game, I said a prayer, which isn’t something I usually do, but I knew how much he cherished his church.
“I aimed not only to succeed for myself but also in his memory.
“My mum has kept track of all my achievements too; she would be absolutely thrilled.”
Marshall acknowledged that his success in winning the Golden Boot Award was significantly supported by his teammates.
“This year, I’ve matured both on and off the field. I feel like I’ve embraced a greater leadership role and have been directing the team more than ever,” he noted.
“I owe much of my success to the Wests Tigers players who support me and allow me the freedom to play my game. They often make me look good.
“I must also extend my gratitude to the coaching staff, including Tim Sheens, Royce Simmons, Peter Gentle, and everyone connected to the club. Without their support, such awards wouldn’t be within reach for me.”
He emphasized that the guidance of Sheens as both a coach and mentor has been tremendously influential since he debuted in first grade in 2003.
“I hold Tim in high regard for everything he has done for my career,” he remarked.
“Transitioning from being a school-based touch-footy player with limited rugby league knowledge, Tim was instrumental in teaching me all that I know.
“The player I’ve become is largely due to Tim’s influence, and I recognize that there is still much for me to learn.”
Marshall pointed out their strong relationship, both on and off the field, stating, “He has certainly acted as a father figure for me during my time in Sydney.”
Sheens expressed his delight in Marshall’s achievement, noting that he had to face several challenges over the year.
“I’m very happy for Benji; this recognition is well-deserved,” Sheens commented.
“Not everything came easily for him. There was a period mid-season where he faced substantial criticism and immense pressure.
“His ability to persevere and ultimately win this award is a testament to his determination and resilience.”
Marshall shared the humbling experience of leading the Kiwis to victory in the Four Nations, an achievement he holds dear.
“While claiming the World Cup in 2008 was a huge milestone not just for me but for New Zealand Rugby League, there’s a different sense of pride that comes with being the captain and guiding the team to success,” he explained.
“Standing at the front during the national anthem and then receiving the trophy on behalf of our nation carries much greater significance for me.
“It will positively impact New Zealand Rugby League.”
