Holli Wheeler, Honey Hireme snare St George Illawarra Dragons top NRLW awards

IT’S a seven day period former hockey player turned NRL women’s pioneer Holli Wheeler will never forget.

Brydie Parker of the Roosters (left) is tackled by Holli Wheeler of the Dragons.

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IT’S a seven day period former hockey player turned NRL women’s pioneer Holli Wheeler will never forget.

It started with her named to compete in the Prime Minister’s XIII in PNG this weekend and then her first ever Jillaroos selection.

On Wednesday night Wheeler claimed a piece of history as the St George Illawarra Dragons NRLW Player of the Year.

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The Dragons backrower earned the accolade after playing starring roles in her clubs three-game campaign.

St George Dragons players Holli Wheeler and Shakia Tungai.

“To go from a goal of playing in a country team this year to signing with the Dragons, wow, it’s been amazing,’’ said Wheeler before the awards.

“I have ticked a massive goal.’’

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It was a deserved award for Wheeler who made her Origin debut for NSW in 2018 and who travelled hundreds of kilometres each week from her home at Old Bar to Wollongong and Sydney for training and games.

Rooster's Brydie Parker tackled by Dragon's Holli Wheeler during the NRL women’s premiership.

Dual New Zealand international Honey Hireme, one of the big names of a Dragons team full of local and young talent, was awarded the NRLW Coach’s Award for the leadership she provided the Dragons’ during their inaugural premiership in skipper Sam Bremner’s injury absence.

Originally published as Holli Wheeler, Honey Hireme snare St George Illawarra Dragons top NRLW awards