Brigginshaw to remain a Diehard even if club moved to lower grade

A majority of Valley Diehards players, including high-profile Ali Brigginshaw, have declared their loyalty to the beleaguered club after it was scratched from the states top comp.

A majority of the Valley Diehards players have declared their loyalty at a meeting at their spiritual ground after the club was scratched from the states top Women’s Rugby League competition.

Ali Brigginshaw said she would stay with the club even if they were to play in the SEQ Premiership, a grade below the QRLW, and has the backing of Wally Lewis.

The playing team, coach Scott Prince and President Danny Walker all met to discuss the future of the club on Thursday night.

“It was a positive meeting and the girls were behind supporting the club now and into future, Mr Walker said.

Wally Lewis is standing strong behind the Valley Diehards. Picture: Josh Woning

A decision is yet to be made on whether they will move to the SEQ Premiership but the playing group is standing with the club.

“Other clubs I have played at haven’t had the culture, that’s the biggest part of the women’s game is building a culture that the club is supportive of,” Brigginshaw said.

“They make sure you’re training on the best field and making sure you are a part of the club, not just filling a void or filling a spot to say you have a women’s team.”

Ali Brigginshaw says she’ll stay loyal to the Valley Diehards. Picture: Chris Hyde/Getty Images

The successful team went through the season undefeated minor premiers, before losing the Grand Final in a nailbiter, all in their debut season.

“We weren’t fighting for numbers, we had people knocking at the door wanting to play and wanting to be a part of it, giving a place that’s supportive and treating the girls like they were professional,” she said.

The team was packed full of talent with five origin players and 11 NRLW players, including Meg Ward, Destiny Brill and Shenae Ciesiolka.