Former NSW captain Maddie Studdon eyes return to the top through Souths’ HNWP charge

Maddie Studdon’s 2024 NRLW hopes were dashed after a horror tackle put her on the sidelines. The former NSW captain isn’t giving up on her goal of returning to the elite level though.

Former NSW Sky Blues captain Maddie Studdon will line up for South Sydney in the Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership. Photo: Mark Kolbe/Getty Images

It’s been a challenging and sometimes lonely road for Maddie Studdon.

Her audition for an NRLW roster spot was cut short after a horror late tackle left her out of action for an extended period.

Now she’s fighting fit and set to lead the charge for the South Sydney Rabbitohs as the Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership gets underway this weekend.

Studdon’s BMD Premiership campaign was put on ice after suffering a grade three MCL injury as a result of foul play

“It was unfortunate. I came back (to Sydney) and did some recovery. I was in a brace for six weeks,” she said.

“I’ve been crushing the rehab and the Souths physio has helped a lot to get me on track for round one. I didn’t think I’d be ready until round two or three.

“Injuries are a big part of league and rehab gets a bit lonely. I didn’t really train with the group and I didn’t know many of the girls (at the start).

“The last three weeks training has been unbelievable.”

Maddie Studdon played with the Rabbitohs in 2018. Picture: AAP IMAGE/ Danny Aarons

Studdon has the most impressive resume among the HNWP competition, captaining NSW to a State of Origin victory in 2018 and a World Cup campaign with the Jillaroos under her belt as well.

Earning her spot in the NRLW remains a goal for her, with Studdon believing she has plenty to offer.

“There’s a lot of footy left in me. I have a fair few years to go, I’m not giving up,” she said.

“To get back into NRLW was a goal for this year but injury stopped my opportunity there.

“The door is not closed. There’s two new teams next year and more opportunities opening up, so I’m just looking to play some good footy.”

The immediate focus is on helping Souths return to their best at the HNWP level, the club the Mascot Jets junior helped reach a grand final in 2018.

“I spoke with Souths before they knew if there would be an NRLW licence. I was committed because they’re my home club and I want the chance to help the juniors as well,” she said.

“Hopefully we can get approval for NRLW in a couple of years. I’m happy to be back playing in the red and green.

“The coaching staff have been unreal and we’ve got a good game plan.

“Everyone wants to play for each other and we get around each other. Not being an NRLW feeder means we’re a squad that sticks together.”

The Rabbitohs commence their HNWP campaign against the Central Coast Roosters at Redfern Oval on Saturday.

Originally published as Former NSW captain Maddie Studdon eyes return to the top through Souths’ HNWP charge