Dyldam Parramatta Eels co-captain Jarryd Hayne has been named the joint 2014 Dally M Medallist with Johnathan Thurston in the first ever tie in the award's history.
The Eels fullback's Dally M nod was his second - he was also named Dally M Medallist in 2009 - and Hayne said standing alongside his Kangaroos teammate and State of Origin enemy was a genuine surprise.
"I thought he had it wrapped up," Hayne admitted.
"But for us to get it together it makes it even more special."
Hayne took the moment on stage to pay tribute to his coach and teammates at Parramatta for creating a strong season for the Blue and Gold, as well as coaxing the best out of his own performances.
"My coach, BA (Brad Arthur) has been a huge infuence in the way that I've played and my team played and I think that's what this year will be remembered for," Hayne said.
"Thanks to my teammates, Brad, the coaching staff and the medical staff."
"And thanks to my dad for coming tonight as my date! I won in 2009 with my mum here and to have my dad here is just as special tonight."
Earlier in the evening, Hayne was also named Representative Player of the Year and fullback in the Team of the Year alongside his teammate, winger Semi Radradra.
And Thurston and Hayne mirrored each other again on the night as Thurston was named top points-scorer for the season and Hayne top try-scorer for 2014.
