We take a look at 100+ of the best women’s rugby league players across New South Wales
Local footy has never been stronger for women across the state, and we pay tribute to the stars who are shining in community footy. We look at 100+ of the best women’s league players in NSW.
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The women’s game continues to rise from strength to strength across NSW.
Participation numbers are on the incline and pathways from top to bottom are strengthening local competitions throughout the state.
We take a look at the players who are starring for their local teams in our list of the best women’s local footy players.
Check out the full list of players below, and head to our ONLINE POLLS to VOTE NOW for who you believe should be crowned best players in Metro and Regional NSW.
JUMP TO
Canberra – Central Coast - Group 2 - Group 9 – Group 20 – Macarthur – Metro Combined Gold – Metro Combined Silver – Mid North Coast – Newcastle/Maitland – NRRRL - Penrith - ProTen Cup – South Coast - Southern Corridor
CANBERRA
Jaimee Patton
Bungendore Tigers
This is Patton’s first year with the Bungendore Roos and playing in the front row. She is far from a bigger player but packs a big tackle and is mighty tough. Jaimee also shows great leadership and dedications to her new team.
Bronte Willdin
Goulburn City Bulldogs
Bronte Willdin is a hard running front rower with athleticism and a motor to go all day. The kind of player you want next to you leading by example. Bronte brings plenty of enthusiasm and determination to the team.
Olivia Howe
Goulburn City Bulldogs
Olivia is a hard-hitting hooker who thrives with leadership and captaincy brings out the best in her game. She is creative out of dummy half and leads by example. She represented Monaro this year in the Women’s Country Championship and brings a wealth of knowledge to the team.
Chloe Doon
Woden Valley Rams
The captain of the side who plays hard in the middle at lock, Doon is a genuine workhorse who is always there to take a hit-up when needed or make a crucial tackle when a break is on the cards.
Tamsyn Cairns
Woden Valley Rams
In her first year of rugby league after making the transition from rugby union. Has played in the outside backs and been a dominant force in defence. Runs over the top of players and hits hard when someone runs at her.
Caitlin Turnbull
Gungahlin Bulls
26 tries in seven games sums up the start to the year Turnbull had before rising to the Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership. Has personal hauls of seven and five tries in individual games this season.
Jade Harding
West Belconnen Warriors
The West Belconnen fullback has been superb at the back as a focal point of the attack to help them to a lofty ladder position.
Crystal Papali’i
West Belconnen Warriors
Her experience has been on full display. A former State Cup player who has given the Warriors plenty of impact off the bench and has been a prolific tryscorer as well.
Briony Frater
Queanbeyan Blues
Has lifted the Blues throughout the year as a classy halfback who has a solid goalkicking percentage to boot. Makes her teammates stronger around her.
Gabrielle Davis
Yass Magpies
Highly talented dummy half who has plenty of game smarts to catch opposition teams napping around the ruck. Good passing game as well.
Mya McGlynn
Belconnen United Sharks
Among the competition’s leading scorers on the back of her ability at fullback to chime in at the right time for the Sharks.
CENTRAL COAST
Sharni Waters
The Entrance Tigers
With lightning speed and an incredibly evasive running game, the centre/fullback has been a standout for the Tigers this season, running in 15 tries to be five clear at the top as the competition’s leading tryscorer.
A member of the Central Coast Roosters’ NSW Women’s Premiership squad, Waters also earned selection in the NSW City side for the National Championships earlier this season.
“She has been a dominant force in our attack since the start of the year,” said coach Daniel Wilson.
Brearna Nathan
The Entrance Tigers
The younger sister of Australian rugby sevens representative Faith Nathan and former NSW Origin player and Tigers’ captain-coach Charmayne Nathan, Brearna has been a standout for The Entrance in the team’s outstanding season.
A classic running five-eighth, Brearna is an incredibly dangerous attacking player who can either break the line herself or put her outside runners into space.
“She has a background in rugby league and touch, and has set the game alight with her attack,” said co-coach Daniel Wilson. “She’s a big reason behind our go-forward when it comes to attack.”
Tahlia Smith
Berkeley Vale Panthers
Lining up at hooker or lock, Smith has been an absolute rock for the Panthers in the middle as the side looks to defend last year’s premiership.
“She’s killing it at the moment, getting our team on a roll and moving us around the park,” said captain Madeline Watson. “She’s scored a few runaway tries and her defence is excellent as well.”
Sophie Dryden
Berkeley Vale Panthers
A new player to rugby league and forced into the halfback position after an injury, Dryden has shown her skills and adaptability with some outstanding performances in the playmaking role.
“She’s come from a union background, so she’s done really well adjusting to league and guiding the team around the park.”
Charlotte Akhurst
Toukley Hawks
Affectionately known by her teammates as ‘Chucky’, the hooker has been a rock for the Hawks in 2024, keeping the middle tidy in defence and posing a threat out of dummy-half with the ball in hand.
“Just she’s a little weapon. She’s not scared to tackle the big girls,” said captain-coach Kasey Gardiner. “She’s also quick off the mark and finds plenty of space.”
Lucy Metcalfe
Toukley Hawks
A livewire at five-eighth, Metcalfe has been attacking dynamite for Toukley in its excellent campaign, crossing for 10 tries, with her ability to create opportunities seemingly out of nothing causing opposition teams plenty of headaches.
“She hadn’t played in the halves before but picks up anything pretty easy and she scores tries most weeks,” said captain-coach Kasey Gardiner.
Charli Pitstock
Erina Eagles
A pint-sized middle forward who plays well above her weight, Pitstock has led by example all year with her non-stop work in the middle and willingness to always take a tough carry.
“She’s doesn’t take a backward step – she’ll get belted and just gets back up and gives as good as she gets,” said coach Mark Pitstock.
Shanay Fahey
Erina Eagles
A real attacking threat in the halves, Fahey has been a standout for the Eagles at five-eighth in both defence and with the ball in hand.
“She’s got great ball skills and is as tough as nails – she plays well above their weight,” said coach Mark Pitstock.
Erin Sheehy
Erina Eagles
Another up-and-coming talent in Erina’s halves, the halfback has helped pull the strings for the young Eagles side with some performances well beyond her years.
“She’s another who won’t take a backward step. She’s a great defender, is good with the ball and is just an excellent team player.”
Reighan Peckham
Dora Creek Swampies
Described as the “organiser and backbone of the team”, the halfback plays a key role in guiding the Swampies around the park and orchestrating the side’s attack.
“Her leadership on the field and strategic playmaking make her a key asset, ensuring smooth execution of plays and effective management of game tempo,” said Dora Creek captain-coach Tiffany Willmott.
Imogen Bailey
Dora Creek Swampies
With an extensive background in OzTag, Bailey has been a standout in her first season of league. Playing as a utility, she has covered anywhere in the backline and even lined up in the playmaker roles.
“Her willingness to engage in tackles and adapt to different roles showcases her commitment to the team in her debut season,” said captain-coach Tiffany Willmott.
Hayley Robinson
Dora Creek Swampies
The “relentless workhorse” of the team, Robinson is the heart and soul of the Swampies’ line-up, providing plenty of steel and strike on the edges as a second-rower, as well as the ability to be used as a playmaker.
“She consistently puts her hand up for extra runs and crucial plays, and is always looking to support her teammates,” said captain-coach Tiffany Willmott. “Her ability to combine hard work with playmaking skills makes her an invaluable asset to the squad.”
GROUP 2
Tina McRae
Sawtell Panthers
The skipper has been one of the top players in the entire Group 2 competition for the table-topping Panthers. While not a big body, McRae has been damaging in the front-row, where she leads the competition for both tries and points scored.
“She’s just a fierce competitor and leads very well from the front for us,” said coach Beau Klaassen.
“She’s just fit, strong and she’s got pace as well. She’s quick for a forward and when other teams get a bit tired she tends to break the line and score or set-up points.”
Lily Davies-Jamieson
Sawtell Panthers
Still only 17, the five-eighth has been a revelation in her first season playing against women.
“Her knowledge on the field in general and her willingness to get involved and not step back has been great,” said coach Beau Klaassen.
Georgia Dent
Macksville Sea Eagles
Playing in just her first year of league, Dent has been a standout for the Sea Eagles at lock after incredibly making her rugby league debut for the North Coast Bulldogs representative team at the start of the year.
“She’s just evolving every week and smashing it,” said coach Simon Dent. “She’s a strong girl, is perfect for rugby league and has got speed. I’d be scared to tackle her when she’s hitting top pace.”
Jill Lilou
Macksville Sea Eagles
An experienced league tag and OzTag player, the halfback has an excellent football mind and has brought an extra level of footy IQ to the team.
“She’s a head above the girls so when she hits the advantage line she’s got to wait for the other girls to catch up,” said coach Simon Dent. “She’s that much more alert with a footballing mind than some other players and it’s a big bonus for us.”
Alinta Carpenter
South Grafton Rebels
The skipper has led by example for the Rebels this year, providing plenty of go forward as a lock while also captaining the side with distinction.
“She brings a lot of leadership and direction, especially when it comes to the younger girls,” said coach Mikee Randall. “She’s one of the older players and guides and directs the younger players around really well.”
Martina Williams
South Grafton Rebels
A former state hockey representative, Williams has slotted into five-eighth since taking up league and has been a key attacking threat with the ball in hand for the Rebels.
“She’s come over to league and the skill level she’s playing at is unbelievable,” said coach Mikee Randall. “She’s just a well-rounded athlete.”
Naomi Smith
Woolgoolga Seahorses
The fullback has been one of the most potent attacking threats in the Group 2 competition throughout 2024, with her footwork and running game causing opposition defences plenty of headaches as she sits in second in the race to become leading tryscorer.
GROUP 9
Jessica Harris
Albury Thunder
Only new to the game this year, Jessica’s never-give-up attitude and love of a challenge continually lifts the team. A fullback with outstanding skills, she is already one of the most exciting players to watch.
Natasha Clemson
Albury Thunder
Natasha is an experienced back-rower/prop who has become a regular in Riverina rep sides. Dedicated and consistent, she is an inspiration to her teammates and loves a tough carry almost as much as crunching the opposition.
Visharn Edwards
Young Cherrypickers
Visharn is a local junior with a strong work ethic and a powerful voice. The crafty fullback has speed and agility, and an uncanny knack of popping up in the right place at the right time.
Jamila Piercy
Young Cherrypickers
An inspirational playmaker, Jamila plays off the cuff in attack and hits hard in defence. The skipper never backs down from a challenge and is a big believer in accountability, which always brings out the best in the team.
Beck Lally
Estella Storm
With a resume that includes under-18s Australian rugby and 9s with the Cronulla Sharks, Beck is the perfect sounding board for the Storm’s rising stars. New to the club, the second-row/centre leads the way in attack and is a reliable defender.
Kate Pevere
Estella Storm
A face of the game in the Riverina, Kate is an experienced centre who has supported the growth of women’s league for many years. A member of the inaugural Riverina Bulls Women’s team, the fierce defender was part of the 2019 side that was crowned Country Championship Premiers.
Megan Prince
South City Bulls
One of the Bulls’ most experienced players, Megan rose through the League Tag ranks before heading to Queensland to play tackle. With open age tackle back on the Wagga Wagga menu, the crafty hooker has returned and anticipates a bright future.
Tamara Thomas
South City Bulls
A well travelled utility, Tamara picked up a wide range of skills in AFL and rugby union before following her heart to South City. Thrives in contact, and enjoys the banter among her committed teammates.
GROUP 20
Shailyn Williams
Griffith Black and Whites
A major backbone in the football club for many years, predominantly with the girls but also assisting in many other ways in the club. On the field she has been a Group 20 League Tag Player of the Year a couple of times but has always managed to play tackle in some form or another, including the Koori Knockout and representing the Indigenous All Stars in 2015.
Samantha Simpson
Griffith Black and Whites
Samantha does not turn 16 until August this year but has already shown the football world that she is a future star of the game scoring five tries in a game for Ivanhoe. Samantha plays in the centres and ha speed, size, strength and determination. Her defence is outstanding and she is never overawed by her older opponents.
MACARTHUR
Rosie Schuster
Camden Rams
The quickest of Camden’s Schuster sisters, Rosie is a powerful outside back who has the strength and pace to score from anywhere on the field. Doesn’t miss her mark in defence either.
Alofa Schuster
Camden Rams
A natural talent, Alofa has an elite background in rugby union and joined the Rams from the Melbourne Rebels. With clever footwork and leg drive, her utility value is a major asset and alongside Rosie, both are Camden’s best defenders.
Folau Vaki
Campbelltown Collegians
One of a handful of damaging ball runners in the Collies pack, Vaki bagged three tries in last month’s grand final victory and was crowned player of the match. A genuine future star, the back-rower has already played NRLW for Wests Tigers.
Pandora Visesio
Campbelltown Collegians
Busy on and off the field, Pandora is the ultimate club-person. With ball in hand, the elusive speedster is equally effective down back or in the halves and captained Collies to this year’s title.
Tarsha Wayne
Campbelltown City Kangaroos
All class down back, the Campbelltown City fullback had a great season for the Roos and as player of the match, played a key role in her side’s grand final victory last month. Tall with a long stride, Tarsha is a major weapon in attack.
Stephanie Glumac
Campbelltown City Kangaroos
A hard running back-rower who has represented Greece on the international stage, Stephanie brings all-round class to the City line-up. Scored a crucial try in the recent grand final victory, and kicked a couple of handy goals.
Mahinaarangi Rewi
Minto Cobras
Perfectly aligned to Minto’s mantra of commitment, leadership, trust and respect, Mahinaarangi leads the Cobras from the frontline. A gifted hooker, she always puts her body on the line for the team.
Na’ Sipa Fitikefu
Minto Cobras
A back-row powerhouse, Na’ Sipa doubles as Minto’s vice-captain. With strength and desire, her passionate carries always lead the way upfront.
Claudia Bush
The Oaks Tigers
Has come along in leaps and bounds since making the jump from League Tag. A five-eighth blessed with raw speed, Claudia is also gifted with the boot and was a key figure in the Tigers’ progression to this year’s decider.
April Stevens
The Oaks Tigers
A no-nonsense prop, April is recognised among the top middles in the competition. Held her own for Illawarra in the HNWP, and the respected local was a key contributor for The Oaks in a standout season.
Josephine Lenaz
Warragamba Wombats
An absolute workhorse around the ruck, Josephine is a busy hooker adept at crunching out metres and her opponents in defence. Despite finishing on the wrong side of the scoreboard in the decider, she was among the best on ground.
Samantha McKechnie
Warragamba Wombats
The Wombats’ chief organiser, Samantha is a skilled playmaker with a sound kicking game. Can take the line on herself or pull the strings to unleash her teammates out wide.
METRO COMBINED GOLD
Jeorgia Ahokava (neé Loto’aniu)
All Saints Toongabbie Tigers
A middle/edge back rower who is a solid defender with a high workrate. She has a no-nonsense approach to training and playing, leading from the front. A mother of two who made the transition from high level soccer to footy and is a current member of the Wests Tigers HNWP squad. Has also represented Tonga at an international level.
Tallara Bamblett
All Saints Toongabbie Tigers
A classy half who has come through the junior rep ranks with Parramatta and graduated to their HNWP squad. Has represented the Australian Schoolgirls and Indigenous Gems, Bamblett is a smart player who exploits attacking opportunities and brings strong leadership qualities for a young player.
Piper Sutton
Mounties
A front rower who has worked herself into a HNWP position on the back of a strong year. She plays with great energy, is a very powerful runner of the football and is an uncompromising talent.
Breeze E’e
Mounties
Finished the season as the top point scorer and is a smart player at fullback. Has great footwork and is safe under the high ball. Strikes the right balance between structure and off the cuff footy.
Shyla Mundine
Redfern All Blacks
Taken the steps from the junior reps system to open women’s and hasn’t missed a beat over the past couple of seasons. A strong front rower who can take the tough carries to get RAB on the front foot.
Kyla Gordon
Redfern All Blacks
Brings a wealth of experience to the Redfern setup, having represented South Sydney and City previously. A ball-playing look who isn’t afraid to step in and get through the hard yards when required.
Luisa Yaranamua
St Christophers
A half who was given captaincy duties of the side this year and didn’t fail to deliver. Possesses a brilliant football mind who has fantastic timing and has led the side around fantastically.
Nanise Vakacavu
St Christophers
Took out player of the match honours in the grand final, playing a starring role to help St Christopers to the title. In her first year with the club, the centre has proven a handful for opposition sides to handle.
METRO COMBINED SILVER
Courtney Milone
Hills Bulls
Chosen by her teammates as the captain, Courtney is the kind of player who leads with both her words and her actions. With a level-headed approach to the game, Courtney is a true inspiration, having battled her way through multiple knee reconstructions to get back on the field in 2024.
Tokasa Lomalagi
Hills Bulls
A joy to have around and a friend to everyone, ‘Tee’ is one of those players who gives her teammates confidence just be her presence on the field. A force to be reckoned with once she crosses that white line, she consistently performs at the best of her ability.
Karol Tanevsi
Lalor Park Kookas
Initially meant to be a trainer after coming off an ACL injury, she has been able to come back and play this year. She is a key ingredient in the glue that holds the team together. She has previously played for Mounties in the HNWP and brings that knowledge and professionalism to the Kookas. She is a prominent leader and has got back to her best form this season.
Hoarna Pukeroa
Lalor Park Kookas
This is her first year playing rugby league, however through her commitment and adaptability, she has proven to be a great asset to the forward pack. She has become one of their strongest defenders with her tackle technique being a stand out. Her future in rugby league is looking extremely bright.
April Major
Pennant Hills Cherrybrook Stags
She is one of the most versatile players out there. You can put her in any position on the field and she doesn't look out of place. She has played every position this year bar front row and halfback for the Stags. A real team player who is very popular within the club.
Lalita Kris
Pennant Hills Cherrybrook Stags
Is our Prop forward that leads from the front. She is a powerful runner of the ball and can hit as hard as any NRLW player out there. She is a bit of a joker around the squad and makes every laugh all the time.
Josephine Zapantis
Marrickville Queens
Josephine is the youngest player in the side at just 17, coming to the club after a Lisa Fiaola season with South Sydney. She is a tough little dummy half with an unbelievable work rate in defence She has also been very handy with her quick darts around the ruck and getting the side on the front foot.
Serenity Mahoni
Marrickville Queens
Has played Tarsha Gale with the Bears and Bulldogs, and has represented Tonga in rugby union. Blessed with speed and timing, Mahoni has produced a number of highlight moments this season. A natural fullback who can slot anywhere in the backline.
Parker Stanton
Mascot Jets
Captained the Rabbitohs Tarsha Gale side last year and has been huge for Mascot at fullback this season. A lightning talent who looks destined for higher honours, she’s lightning quick when in open space.
Lily-Belle Misiloi
Mascot Jets
Has moved from the country to the city and had a great impact for the Jets so far. A probing halfback who takes on the line to great effect and is well adept at setting up her outside players.
Charlotte Byrne
Forestville Ferrets
Has been playing rugby league from a very young age, showcasing a methodical and effective approach to the game. Despite her youth, she has already achieved significant milestones, including playing in the Tarsha Gale Cup and playing open women’s rugby at the age of 17 last year. Charlotte is a talented lock and the club’s current Player of the Year.
Chloe O’Brien
Forestville Ferrets
A newcomer to Rugby League, having previously played Premier Women’s soccer. She brings a high level of enthusiasm, professionalism, and a strong drive to learn and develop her game. Chloe consistently performs above expectations, demonstrating exceptional determination and resilience. She is a reliable team player who always supports her teammates.
Bridget Hohaia
Cabramatta Two Blues
A rising star in rugby league as a second-rower/prop, known for her skills, determination, and humour. On the field, she’s fearless and resilient, making crucial tackles and leading by example. Off the field, her quick wit and positive demeanour make her a team favourite.
Veisinia Laiafi
Cabramatta Two Blues
Veisinia is a key player in the side, anchoring the front row with strength and resilience. Her physical prowess and strategic play significantly boost the team’s performance. Known for her leadership, dedication, and relentless work ethic, Veisinia sets high standards for her teammates, both in training and matches.
Tymekqwa Duckett
Alexandria Rovers
One of the most feared forwards in the competition. She is the leader of the pack and even more remarkable is the 22-year-old gave birth to her second child less than three months ago. She has Tarsha Gale and NRLW experience and is chasing a dream spot in the NRLW. Leads by example off the field at training and in the gym. Is a real role model.
Kiara McGregor
Alexandria Rovers
In season 2024 alone she has represented NSW Schools opens team and the Souths Tarsha Gale team. She’s done a pre-season with the HNWP side as well, and is a chance of suiting up this season. She makes the game looks slow when she has the ball, a gifted ballplayer who also has great balance and knows when to run and is a very handy goal kicker to boot.
MID NORTH COAST
Belinda Andersen
Wauchope Blues
Arguably the finest footballer from the renowned Trembath family, Belinda is a pioneer of the women’s game in the northern regions. A tenacious No. 9, the 45-year-old leads from the front in her quest to make up for lost time.
Ava Glassie
Wauchope Blues
A rising fullback blessed with raw pace, Ava has an OzTag background and is fast making a name for herself on the rep scene. A natural off both feet, she is a Country rep and member of the NSW Combined Catholic Colleges team.
NEWCASTLE/MAITLAND
Brandi Davis-Welsh
Raymond Terrace Magpies
The captain and halfback of the side, leading the Magpies at just 22 years of age. A player who leads by example and officials are impressed with how she is able to guide the side around.
Xanthiah Roach
Raymond Terrace Magpies
Plays at dummy half and despite being one of the smallest players of the team, has no fear in defence and is among the top tacklers in the team. The 17-year-old plays with absolutely no fear.
Matise Trisley
South Newcastle Lions
Matiese in only her second year of tackle plays with what seems like years of experience, a super competitive worker always demands high standards of her self and everyone around her. From a strong touch football background into two seasons of League Tag, she has set a solid skill base for her to succeed and a very strong pass in both directions.
Ella Conlon
South Newcastle Lions
Ella grew up playing touch and league tag in Ulladulla and had her first tackle season for Batemans Bay when she was 15. Ella is relentless in attack and defence. She has a huge motor and has played every minute of this season. She has an aggressive style and certainly lays a platform for the team.
Brooke Carter
Maitland Pickers
Brooke is a talented half that can control a game. While her abilities as a footballer are a great asset to the team, it’s Brooke’s leadership qualities that really shine. Every player in the squad looks up to her with respect and the passion she has for every player and the club is without question. Brooke is one of the hardest working players in the competition.
Terri-Lee Van Wyk
Maitland Pickers
Terri always takes the field with 100 per cent effort and heart. Being a strong defender is paramount to Terri’s game and every week she leads with her actions. She is keen to learn and while being tough and aggressive on the field, away from it she has a softer side always willing to help a teammate.
Tyla Brown
Lakes United Seagulls
The flying winger leads the strong competition for tries after a blistering start to the season. Developed from league tag in Group 21 last season to earning a shot with the Knights in the HNWP.
Lily McNamara
Lakes United Seagulls
A local junior who has come through the Newcastle pathways and been a crucial part of their success. A winger who can also kick goals, she’s a strong finisher.
Danielle Buttsworth
Central Newcastle
The winger became well known for her TV stint on Ultimate Tag but she’s making a name for herself as a dynamic player for Central Newcastle.
Malaki Poa
Western Suburbs Rosellas
A classy dummy half who has handled the rise up to open women’s rugby league after a strong stint with the Knights in the Tarsha Gale Cup.
NRRRL
Keneisha Hall
Bilambil Jets
The fullback and captain has been a big factor behind Bilambil’s successful season to date.
A Northern Rivers league tag representative, Hall’s excellent footwork and speed has made her a potent attacking weapon who is sitting equal top as the competition’s leading tryscorer.
Tarah Smith
Bilambil Jets
Playing either on the edge or in the middle for the Jets, Smith has once again been one of the stars in the NRRRL competition.
A skilful forward with plenty of speed, Smith was named captain for the Northern Rivers Titans in this year’s women’s country championships in a sign of just how highly regarded she is.
Jadha King
Northern United
A powerful runner on the edges, King has been one of Northern United’s go-to attacking weapons throughout the season, with her ability to break the line putting her joint top as the competition’s leading tryscorer.
Karri Williams
Northern United
The crafty half has brought plenty of skill and guidance to the Dirawongs’ side.
An experienced representative player in both tackle league and league tag, Williams has directed the team around the park and helped make Northern United one of the main contenders for the title.
Raeyah Kapeen
Evans Head Bombers
A Northern Rivers Titans representative player, Kapeen is a skilful half who has not only been a standout on the field, but has also led the team and some of the less experienced players with distinction in what is the club’s first season playing tackle league.
“Raeyah’s a good leader, excellent trainer and captains the side really well,” said coach Grant McGeary.
Mia Dendle
Evans Head Bombers
Lining up either at lock or hooker, Dendle has been a rock for the Bombers in the middle, getting through loads and work and offering plenty of spark with the ball in hand.
“She’s a good all-rounder, good in both defence and attack and she’s got a really high skill level,” said coach Grant McGeary.
PENRITH
Taytana Pati Ah-Cheung
Cambridge Park
As Cambo’s fearless leader in the side’s first season of open age competition, Taytana is a reliable go-to when the chips are down. Unmatched for passion and effort, the halfback’s raw and untapped talent could well see her rise through the ranks and reach the NRLW.
Bree Stone
Cambridge Park
A gifted fullback who puts doubt in oncoming defenders, Bree has plenty of tricks up her sleeve. Never gives up, and despite carrying an injury in the recent semi final still managed to pull off an astonishing try saving tackle in extra time.
Tyanna Kerr
Glenmore Park Brumbies
A rising halfback, Tyanna is among the standouts in the Penrith competition. Consistent on either side of the ball, her infectious and never-say-die attitude is a key asset on and off the park. All going well, her goal is to play NRLW.
Janna Leitch
Glenmore Park Brumbies
A natural athlete, this pocket rocket centre combines fearless aggression and raw energy to rock opponents and inspire teammates. A Brumbies favourite, she’s an absolute standout.
Emma Parker
St Clair Comets
A powerful leader upfront, Emma captained the Comets to this year’s grand final. Respected by her teammates, she is an imposing presence with and without the ball in the middle of the field.
Cydney Cherrington
St Clair Comets
A former Penrith pathways rep, Cydney is a crafty hooker with the skills of a half who has an uncanny ability to cross the stripe. Dangerous behind a dominant pack, she’s a consistent performer.
Chelsea Peyroux
St Marys Saints
Brings a wealth of experience from the Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership and from stints behind the clipboard as a coach. A gun halfback, Chelsea showed poise and agility to cross for the match winning try in the Saints’ recent grand final victory.
Natalie Vaka
St Marys Saints
The up-and-coming hooker captained St Marys in this year’s decider. Still in her teens, she offers faultless ball work around the ruck and never shirks expectations in defence.
Maddison Eaton
Doonside Roos
One of Doonside’s best, Maddison is a tall hooker with an uncanny knack of crossing the stripe. Dangerous from dummy-half, she has a lethal right-arm fend and bagged a season-high 14 tries this year.
Keely Stevens
Riverstone Razorbacks
With speed off the mark and a superior footy IQ, the zippy halfback poses a major threat from close range and is the perfect choice to lead the Razorbacks as team captain.
Erin Graham
Riverstone Razorbacks
Fullback
A tall and energetic fullback, Erin can step equally well off both feet and is difficult to run down if given a head start.
PROTEN CUP
Jessie Burns
Goolgowi Rabbitohs
Jessie has the great ability to get through a line and create opportunity with the ball for the team. Her leadership as captain-coach on the field helps to get her team moving forward, while always there for support in defence. Jessie’s kicking game is also one that does not go unnoticed and can be a worry for any opposition.
Lexi Lightfoot
Goolgowi Rabbitohs
Lexi is a workhorse in the middle of the field, having strong hit-ups in nearly every set. Her eagerness to take on any task on the field builds confidence in those around her. Lexi’s leadership and direction on the field, combined with her experience as a coach is reflected in the many women she has taught to play in our club over the years.
Natalie Gibbs
Rankins Springs Dragonettes
Natalie has been playing since the first Dragonettes team in 2021, one of two players to have played all four seasons. Along with often topping the runs and tackle count she will usually play full games in the forwards, an invaluable asset in a competition that often has teams short on the bench.
Cathy Soligo
Rankins Springs Dragonettes
Despite being one of the smallest players in the comp is also one of the best defenders. Can pull off some inspirational big hits on girls twice her size. Cathy made the Proten Cup representative side in 2023.
Amber Clarke-Baldock
Hillston Bluebirds
Amber can easily be considered the backbone of the Bluebirds, bringing a culture of inclusivity and respect. She is committed, not only to the game, but to the club itself, going above and beyond to support both the women’s and the men’s teams, in whatever way she can. She’s the club’s leading scorer this year.
Kielle Goolagong
Hillston Bluebirds
A strong and powerful prop, Kielle is a force to be reckoned with. She showcases strength both mentally and physically, but brings a gentleness and kindness that is vital to the team. Coming back after injury, Kielle is the embodiment of courage and resilience.
Soph Kelsey
Barellan Rams
The leading scorer in the Proten Cup for the Rams, Kesley has built her season on her power running and ability to slice through the line, giving Barellan a great option on an edge.
Monique Higgins
Barellan Rams
Has been steering the ship for the Rams and the halfback led the club to an undefeated regular season campaign.
Bobbi Goolagong
Ivanhoe Roosters
The five-eighth of the Roosters has linked well with halves partner Shailyn Williams to help Ivanhoe reach the grand final of the Proten Cup.
Olivia Light-Wate
Narrandera Lizards
The front rower gave the Lizards plenty of go-forward throughout the season and remarkably led the club in scoring, such is her ability from close range.
SOUTH COAST
Abbey Montgomery
Milton-Ulladulla Bulldogs
The grunt in the Bulldogs’ pack, “Bumpers” is a tackle busting machine and fierce defender. With experience under her belt, the former young gun has matured into a respected forward leader.
Olivia Ozolins
Milton-Ulladulla Bulldogs
A ruptured ACL ended Olivia’s 2022 campaign, but the halfback has bounced back in style. Now team captain, “Patto” is a smart technician who inspires others with an unrelenting competitiveness and work ethic.
Tyeisha Tighe
Shellharbour Sharks
A punishing middle who revels in the rough stuff, Tyeisha is an imposing presence and sparks the side with enormous post contact metres. In defence, she dominates the ruck and tackles all day.
Brittany Bugden
Shellharbour Sharks
Brittany brings a level head to the Sharks’ attack, and as five-eighth has the necessary vision and communication to guide the team around the park. A great kicking game is matched by physical defence.
SOUTHERN CORRIDOR
Grace Smith
Western Suburbs, Illawarra
Playing in her first season of league after a long and successful stint in league tag. She has exemplified everything that makes the sport great from her tenacity in defence, fearlessness running the ball with grit and desire to perform at her best. Grace is also a tentative listener, prepared to try new things and is a powerful forward leader.
Kiana Williams
Western Suburbs, Illawarra
After playing with the Raiders in Tarsha Gale previously, Williams has joined the Devils. She has natural speed and effortlessly moves across the field. Her ability to diffuse an attacking raid with rugged defence, confidence under the high ball and a determination to turn defence into attack at every opportunity is a strength.
Madison So-Murphy
Penshust RSL Kookaburras
A young talented athlete who is representing the club for her second year in the open women’s competition. Maddy is a classy, explosive and dynamic. Her ability to run the ball and steer the side around the field as the dummy half.
Laura Croan
Penshurst RSL Kookaburras
Laura is an experienced athlete, choosing to return for her third season at the club. Laura offers the side leadership and is an outstanding, reliable ball runner along the edge of the field. Laura has already made her presence known as a talented centre.
Abbie Ritchie
Corrimal Cougars
The Queenslander made the move south to join the South Sydney Rabbitohs for the Tarsha Gale season and has been among the best for the Corrimal Cougars as they sit on top of the Southern Corridor competition.
Brooke Elliott
Como Jannali Crocodiles
A strike weapon for the Crocs who has recently been called up to the Cronulla Sharks in the Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership.
Fou Fatu
Riverwood Legion
The halfback for Riverwood Legion has been a standout as they charge towards the finals, leading the scoring for the team with her incredible running game.
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