Dragons star Sam Bremner says women’s NRL comp a ‘dream come true’
A DECADE after Sam Bremner commandeered a group of mates into a rugby league team, the Jillaroos star has trained for the first time with a Dragons team about to create history.
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A DECADE after Sam Bremner commandeered a group of mates from netball, Oz Tag and touch footy into a rugby league team the Jillaroos star has trained for the first time with a Dragons team about to create history as a foundation member of the inaugural women’s NRL competition.
An emotional Bremner, who with Jillaroos teammate Kezie Apps was part of the clubs licence application and are now the faces of the Dragons side, admitted even a year ago she was doubtful she would be playing the game she loves in an organised NRL league.
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“I feel obligated to say that I really did dream of this moment as a child but I never really thought it was possible then,’’ Bremner said as NRL Women’s pre-season officially began on Wednesday.
“I always wanted to play rugby league but mum was a bit fearful of me playing so I did netball instead.
“When I got my first team together I got all the girls I knew who could maybe catch a ball and we formed our own team and then won our comp for the next four years. It was the best thing I ever did.
“Even this time last year I didn't think us girls would have the opportunity that’s ahead.
“This really is a dream come true.’’
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With St George Bank extending their men’s team sponsorship to the women’s team awarded a five year licence in March and coached by Daniel Lacey, Bremner and Apps will spearhead a squad of 22 when the competition kicks off in September in conjunction with the men’s NRL final series.
Many in the squad met for the first time on Wednesday ahead of their first training session.
The squad ranges in age from 18 to 37, boasts nine local juniors, five mothers with nine children between them and internationals from Australia, New Zealand, Samoa and Tonga.
Most of the squad, which includes a nanny, legal secretary, teacher, greenkeeper, apprentice carpenter and construction worker, will continue working at least part time as they prepare for and then play in the inaugural competition.
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“I just feel so honoured to be playing the sport I love so much,’’ Bremner said. “It’s exciting times.’’