Shenae Ciesiolka shares key advice with young rugby league players

Shenae Ciesiolka has represented Australia in three different ‘football’ codes but it is her league achievements which have made her a household name. Now she is sharing her knowledge with young female players eager to follow in her footsteps.

Shenae Ciesiolka breaks through the Tweed Seagulls line. Picture: Benny Hassum Photography

As a junior Shenae Ciesiolka played the bulk of her footy against boys.

The now 26-year-old made her mark before having to hang up her treasured Oakey Bears jersey when she was no longer ‘allowed’ to play league.

Fortunately she is now one of Australian rugby league’s leading stars.

Announcing Queensland Rugby League and Westpac’s plans to take the Western Clydesdales under-17 and under-19 female players to game one of the Womens’ State of Origin, Ciesiolka said she has no doubt the Darling Downs could produce more league stars.

“Our (Western Clydesdales) under-17 girls and the under-19s were really successful this year, both teams played really well,” Ciesiolka said.

“The 19s made it to the semi-final and only just lost and we have a few of them (U19 players) playing in the BMD competition.

“I think we will definitely see some more stars from this region – the talent is already here.

“Then there are a lot of girls being scouted for the Queensland and Queensland Country and it’s exciting that the pathway is now available for them in Toowoomba.”

Shenae Ciesiolka in action for the Western Clydesdales BMD Premiership. Picture: Benny Hassum Photography.

Ciesiolka knows a thing or two about shining on the grandest football stages having represented Australia in touch football, rugby sevens and rugby league.

Add in her NRLW and State of Origin experience and she is a perfect mentor for the young Clydesdales players.

Alongside the likes of fellow Clydesdales seniors Ali Brigginshaw, Steph Hancock, Kezie Apps and Keeley Davis, Ciesiolka readily shares her knowledge and her advice is simple.

“Keep backing yourself and be confident in your ability,” she said.

“Always be willing and open to feedback and wanting to learn because at the end of the day everyone can learn and get better as a player.

“And the last thing I’d say to (young female players is I was once in your shoes and look where I am now – absolutely anything is possible.”