KEY POINTS:
New Zealand Warriors forward Ruben Wiki has been awarded the Ken Stephen Medal at the NRL'S One Community Awards in Sydney.
The 15-year veteran was awarded the medal for services to the game and the community, in recognition of his work across a number of community and youth-oriented programmes in Auckland.
"It has come as a great shock to be honest," Wiki said. "Every NRL player gives something back to the community and to be officially recognised is a great honour."
Wiki gained the award ahead of candidates including Dally M player of the year Johnathan Thurston (North Queensland), Penrith hooker Luke Priddis and forward Matthew Cross, Gold Coast fullback Preston Campbell, former award winner Dean Widders of South Sydney, Melbourne's Matt Rua and Wests Tigers captain Brett Hodgson.
First struck in 1988 to honour the long-time secretary of the NSWRL, the Ken Stephen medal has been awarded to players including Wayne Pearce, Peter Sterling, Paul Harragon, Mark Coyne, Andrew Ettingshausen and Michael Monaghan.
Since returning to New Zealand in 2005, Wiki has been appointed as an ambassador to the Auckland Rugby League Hubbard's Nutrition in Schools programme, the "Family Violence - it's not OK" campaign, the Barker Men's Clothing campaign to raise money for the Prostate Foundation and the "Turn Your Life Around" campaign.
In June this year, Wiki was also appointed an officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit in recognition of his services to Rugby League.
NRL chief executive David Gallop praised Wiki for his outstanding work in the community.
"In 288 games he's won premierships, captained his club and his country but at the same time focused on helping others to achieve their goals in everyday life," said Gallop.
"I congratulate him and all the other finalists for their outstanding work in the community throughout the year."
Penrith won the One Community NRL club award on Friday night in Sydney while there were several awards handed out for grassroots programmes and individuals.
