Connor Votano is an explosive young fullback for the Newcastle Knights, admired for his speed, agility, and natural attacking instinct. He began his rugby league journey with the Entrance Tigers, a club that played a key role in his early development.

A standout within the Knights’ pathways, Votano quickly rose through the junior ranks. In 2023, he was awarded the Kurt Gidley Medal as the club’s Harold Matthews Cup Player of the Year, confirming his status as one of Newcastle’s most promising emerging athletes. His progression continued in 2024, when he both represented New South Wales in the Under‑19s State of Origin series and made his NSW Cup debut for the Knights.

Ahead of the 2025 season, Votano earned elevation to the Knights’ full‑time NRL roster, and in Round 24, he made his much‑anticipated NRL debut against the North Queensland Cowboys, becoming Knight #363. Playing the full 80 minutes at fullback, he produced a strong first‑grade showing with 98 running metres, 3 tackles, 1 tackle break, and only 2 missed tackles, a performance that demonstrated his composure and readiness for the top level.

Votano’s rapid rise has been driven by his athleticism, game awareness, and finishing ability, making him one of the Knights’ most exciting long‑term prospects.