St Marys rugby league player Aliyah Nasio is flourishing in her new role for the club

Aliyah Nasio is leading the way for female rugby league players in St Marys, and her influence has earned her a Local Sports Star nomination.

Aliyah Nasio is a rising star with St Marys Junior Rygby League Club.

ALIYAH Nasio is leading the way for female rugby league players in St Marys, and her influence has earned her a Local Sports Star nomination.

Aliyah has played rugby league for a few seasons and is an ambassador for women at the club, which is set to field a handful of girls-only sides this season.

The 11-year-old is the reason a number of young girls are keen to play.

“My brother plays and I’ve always liked watching footy and, by playing, you get to make a lot of new friends,” she said.

St Marys Junior Rugby League Club player Aliyah Nasio is loving playing league.

“Girls that want to play footy should have a go.”

Aliyah, who plays in the back row, doesn’t mind rolling up her sleeves and showing the boys who’s boss.

She models her game on Canterbury and NSW forward David Klemmer.

“He’s my favourite because he runs straight and hard which is what I try and do,” she said.

There are five categories to nominate people in: Junior Sports Star Individual, Junior Sports Star Team, Young Sporting Spirit Individual, Young Sporting Star Team and Service to Sport.

Details: Visit localsportstsar.com.au.