Tabuai rapt to sign up with Pride
The Northern Pride have signed arguably the biggest name in the Far North Queensland Rugby League women’s competition as they prepare for their first season in the BMD Premiership.
Local Sport
Don't miss out on the headlines from Local Sport. Followed categories will be added to My News.
The Northern Pride have signed arguably the biggest name in the Far North Queensland Rugby League women’s competition as they prepare for their first season in the BMD Premiership.
Three-times Kangaroos premiership captain Genavie Tabuai is the Pride’s third signing, following the announcement of fellow Far North Queensland players Kimberley Hunt and Jenni-Sue Hoepper.
Tabuai said she was an honour to have this as part of her legacy.
“It is definitely a privilege to be the first local player, it’s definitely overdue for our region, so I am 100 per cent grateful for the opportunity,” Tabuai said.
“I hope these pathways will make the local girls hungry for these opportunities.
“So I think it is really exciting and from that junior level now, junior girls level going up to the seniors and then going up to the next platform which is BMD.
“It is definitely big for our region and definitely for our women’s space.”
Tabuai was a major push for getting the Northern Pride women’s side up and running.
A conversation between the newly recruited Pride player and Pride’s chief executive Garreth Smith six years ago was what started the journey to getting the BMD side off the ground.
The three-time premiership captain is the first from FNQRL to be picked up by the Pride but is expecting more to follow in her footsteps.
“To be honest I think I am ready for the step up now (from local rugby league to Q-Cup),” Tabuai said.
“This is a platform that is well overdue for our region and there are a lot of girls in the local level that do work extremely hard but don’t have access to those opportunities.
“So now that this is here at the front door in Cairns, I think it is going to open up a lot doors for the women and inspire the younger generation to come.
“Definitely want to bring the Roos girls along but in saying that I think there is also a lot of talent amongst the whole region.
“So there is definitely some great grassroot talent that is underrated, so now that this opportunity is here, it is going to be great.”
Northern Pride coach Colin Wilkie said the signing of Tabuai was a testament to her hard work and contribution to the game at the grassroots level.
“Genavie epitomises what the Northern Pride stands for – dedication, community and excellence,” Wilkie said.
“Her inclusion in our 2025 squad is a well-deserved reward for her efforts and achievements.
“She will bring passion, experience and a deep connection to the values of our club.”
Dally M medallist ’honoured’ to pull boots back on in Cairns
The Northern Pride have signed one of the biggest names in women’s rugby league to come out of the Far North as they prepare for their first season in the BMD Premiership in 2025.
The first female Dally M winner, Jenni-Sue Hoepper will join fellow Far North Queenslander Kimberley Hunt in a Pride jersey next season after being the clubs second signing.
Hoepper, who comes out of retirement, said it was a pretty easy decision to make.
“Very excited but also very honoured to be able to represent Northern Pride for the first time especially in the inaugural women's team,” Hoepper said.
“It means a lot being a Cairns born and bred, growing up here and being able to throw on the jersey.
“I would have preferred to stay here and play footy in front of family and friends but to be able to see now there is a full pathway for our future coming through, I am very excited.”
Hoepper joins the Pride with a wealth of experience and a remarkable legacy already.
The Dally M winner has represented her region, state and country, showcasing her talents and leadership.
Hoepper is looking forward to helping develop the younger players coming through.
“I think just a lot of those one per centers with the young ones coming through to lead with a lot of energy,” Hoepper said.
“I really hope I am able to guide our girls and really take off from there.”
Northern Pride coach Colin Wilkie said Hoepper is a role model for players and supporters.
“Her experience and knowledge will be invaluable as we prepare for the 2025 BMD Premiership campaign,” Wilkie said.
“Her coming out of retirement is a great example of her competitive nature and drive to succeed.
“Her leadership both on and off the field will inspire not only our players but the entire Northern Pride community.”
More Coverage
Originally published as Tabuai rapt to sign up with Pride
7 ducks and all out for 43, Barron River annihilate Atherton
Barron River’s dominant victory over Atherton at Crathern Park has bolted them back into the finals race, as they annihilated third-place Atherton with a crushing all-out performance.
TRL TRACKER: Contender re-signs elite quadrant ahead of 2025
SIGNING SEASON: A TRL contender with hopes of a breakthrough premiership has shown it will once again be dangerous in 2025 with the re-signings of four elite players.