Jets chief executive Lawrie McKinna presented the long-time fan his own No.12 jersey at training on Tuesday.

In a new initiative, each year the Jets will reward one of their fans by making them the honorary 12^th man. They will receive a shirt, be registered with the FFA and take part in the team photo.

"It was our strength and condition coach Brice Johnson's idea. Hull rugby league club in England do something similar,"McKinna said. "The fans are our 12th man and we want to recognise their efforts.

"Todd was a standout. He and his dog Bailey are ever present at training, he travels to games and has a positive attitude. He is always on social media supporting the club through thick and thin. He is just a really good fan."

Blackwell, who is medically retired, has been supporting the Jets since their inception in 2005-06, has been a member for a dozen years and has been attending training since 2014.

In future years, the club will ask for nominations for the 12^th man.