Season 2022

[Eric]

The ten biggest signing of the season​

The Broncos are deserved favourites heading into the NRLW season, but here’s why they will have things far from their own way.

The highly anticipated NRLW season will kick off in less than 100 days and the 6 clubs have already pulled off some huge signings in preparation.
An Olympic gold medallist to a Dally M medallist, plenty of big names have been secured for the postponed 2021 season.

It’s set to be a bigger and better NRLW season as well, with more games, more clubs and more talent on show in the elite women’s competition. We’ve taken a look at the 10 biggest signings for the upcoming season.

Emma Tonegato (St. George Illawarra Dragons)​

Position: Outside back

The Olympic gold medallist is one of the most exciting signings in the NRLW off season so far. The Australian Rugby Sevens star is fresh off her Tokyo Olympics campaign and is making her return to rugby league in the famous Red V jersey. Tonegato adds plenty of depth to the Dragons backline on either the wing, centre or a replacement fullback for Sam Bremner – who is set to miss the 2022 season through pregnancy.

 

[Eric]

Squad game: Dragons NRLW analysis and best 17​

St George Illawarra Dragons are back for a fourth season in the NRLW Women's Premiership but never before will their build-up to a campaign feel so different. New coach Jamie Soward has inherited most of a squad recruited by Mat Head, who briefly took over as coach following Daniel Lacey's departure at the end of the 2020 season.

Easily the hardest hit by the expansion to six NRLW clubs, the Dragons have lost 10 players from their 2020 squad to rival sides while foundation player Sam Bremner is also out of action after giving birth to her second child in November. However, the Dragons do have reason to feel quietly optimistic despite being written off by some already about their chances in 2022. The Red V still boasts plenty of NRLW and international experience including star forward Kezie Apps and Jillaroos hooker Keeley Davis.

Australian rugby sevens star Emma Tonegato heads a list of new recruits fresh off her Tokyo Olympics campaign. Tonegato is one of 12 Dragons players in line for an NRLW debut with the former Jillaroo an option for Soward at fullback. Former Rooster Quincy Dodd arrives at the club after three years at the Tricolours and provides a one-two punch with Davis at hooker. PNG forward Elsie Albert proved difficult to stop in her maiden season in 2020 while the backline have all had experience representing NSW, either at Origin or under 19s level.

Possible best 17​

1. Emma Tonegato 2. Jaime Chapman 3. Keele Browne 4. Shontelle Stowers 5. Teagan Berry 6. Taliah Fuimaono 7. Rachael Pearson 8. Elsie Albert 9. Keeley Davis 10. Aliti Namoce 11. Shaylee Bent 12. Kezie Apps 13. Holli Wheeler. Interchange: 14. Quincy Dodd 15. Natassja Purontakanen 16. Alexandra Sulusi 17. Talei Holmes

Biggest strength​

The dummy half combination of Keeley Davis and Quincy Dodd are easily the most potent in the NRLW with the pair sharing the duties during women's State of Origin in June. Both with backgrounds in the halves, their transitions to hooker have come seamlessly but get better with more game time played. Dodd proved a handful during the NRLW in 2020 with three tries, all catching the defenders napping close to the line.

Biggest question mark​

The halves combination of Taliah Fuimaono and Rachael Pearson is untested with both players set to enter their maiden seasons in the NRLW. Fuimaono has come through the ranks for Mounties in the Harvey Norman NSW Premiership while Pearson hails from Wagga Wagga and only started playing for Helensburgh in the HNWP in 2021. Pearson arrives at the Dragons with decent praises but the pair will need to find their feet early or coach Soward may have to make a change during the season.

Draw snapshot​

The Dragons will start their campaign against the Titans at McDonald Jones Stadium before the competition shifts to Wollongong for round two. Another home game against the Roosters is locked in at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium in round five on March 26.

 

[Chris M]

Squad game: Dragons NRLW analysis and best 17​

St George Illawarra Dragons are back for a fourth season in the NRLW Women's Premiership but never before will their build-up to a campaign feel so different. New coach Jamie Soward has inherited most of a squad recruited by Mat Head, who briefly took over as coach following Daniel Lacey's departure at the end of the 2020 season.

By far the hardest hit by the expansion to six NRLW clubs, St George Illawarra Dragons have lost 10 players from their 2020 squad to rival sides while foundation player Sam Bremner is also out of action after giving birth to her second child late last year. However, the Dragons do have reason to feel quietly optimistic despite being written off by some already about their chances in 2022. The Red V still boasts plenty of NRLW and international experience including star forward Kezie Apps and Jillaroos hooker Keeley Davis.

Australian rugby sevens star Emma Tonegato heads a list of new recruits fresh off her Tokyo Olympics campaign. Tonegato is one of 12 Dragons players in line for an NRLW debut with the former Jillaroo an option for Soward at fullback. Former Rooster Quincy Dodd arrives at the club after three years at the Tricolours and provides a one-two punch with Davis at hooker. PNG forward Elsie Albert proved difficult to stop in her maiden season in 2020 while the backline have all had experience representing NSW, either at Origin or under 19s level.

Possible best 17​

1. Emma Tonegato 2. Jaime Chapman 3. Keele Browne 4. Shontelle Stowers 5. Teagan Berry 6. Taliah Fuimaono 7. Rachael Pearson 8. Elsie Albert 9. Keeley Davis 10. Aliti Namoce 11. Shaylee Bent 12. Kezie Apps 13. Holli Wheeler. Interchange: 14. Quincy Dodd 15. Natassja Purontakanen 16. Alexandra Sulusi 17. Talei Holmes

Biggest strength​

The dummy half combination of Keeley Davis and Quincy Dodd are easily the most potent in the NRLW with the pair sharing the duties during women's State of Origin in June. Both with backgrounds in the halves, their transitions to hooker have come seamlessly but get better with more game time played. Dodd proved a handful during the NRLW in 2020 with three tries, all catching the defenders napping close to the line.

Biggest question mark​

The halves combination of Taliah Fuimaono and Rachael Pearson is untested with both players set to enter their maiden seasons in the NRLW. Fuimaono has come through the ranks for Mounties in the Harvey Norman NSW Premiership while Pearson hails from Wagga Wagga and only started playing for Helensburgh in the HNWP in 2021. Pearson arrives at the Dragons with decent praises but the pair will need to find their feet early or coach Soward may have to make a change during the season.

Draw snapshot​

The Dragons will start their campaign against the Titans at McDonald Jones Stadium before the competition shifts to Wollongong for round two. Another home game against the Roosters is locked in at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium in round five on March 26.

Sounds like they aren't confident.

 

[Morgan]

Squad game: St George Illawarra Dragons NRLW analysis and best 17​

The Dragons are back for a fourth season in the NRLW Women's Premiership but never before will their build-up to a campaign feel so different. First season coach Jamie Soward has inherited most of a squad recruited by Mat Head, who briefly took over as coach following Daniel Lacey's departure at the end of 2020.

By far the hardest hit by the expansion to six NRLW clubs, the Dragons have lost 10 players from their 2020 squad to rival sides while foundation player Sam Bremner is also out of action after giving birth to her second child in November. However, the Dragons do have reason to feel quietly optimistic despite being written off by some already about their chances in 2022. The Red V still boasts plenty of NRLW and international experience including star forward Kezie Apps and Jillaroos hooker Keeley Davis.

Australian rugby sevens star Emma Tonegato heads a list of new recruits fresh off her Tokyo Olympics campaign. Tonegato is one of 12 St George Illawarra Dragons players in line for an NRLW debut with the former Jillaroo an option for Soward at fullback. Former Rooster Quincy Dodd arrives at the club after three years at the Tricolours and provides a one-two punch with Davis at hooker. PNG forward Elsie Albert proved difficult to stop in her maiden season in 2020 while the backline have all had experience representing NSW, either at Origin or under 19s level.

Possible best 17​

1. Emma Tonegato 2. Jaime Chapman 3. Keele Browne 4. Shontelle Stowers 5. Teagan Berry 6. Taliah Fuimaono 7. Rachael Pearson 8. Elsie Albert 9. Keeley Davis 10. Aliti Namoce 11. Shaylee Bent 12. Kezie Apps 13. Holli Wheeler. Interchange: 14. Quincy Dodd 15. Natassja Purontakanen 16. Alexandra Sulusi 17. Talei Holmes

Biggest strength​

The dummy half combination of Keeley Davis and Quincy Dodd are easily the most potent in the NRLW with the pair sharing the duties during women's State of Origin in June. Both with backgrounds in the halves, their transitions to hooker have come seamlessly but get better with more game time played. Dodd proved a handful during the NRLW in 2020 with three tries, all catching the defenders napping close to the line.

Biggest question mark​

The halves combination of Taliah Fuimaono and Rachael Pearson is untested with both players set to enter their maiden seasons in the NRLW. Fuimaono has come through the ranks for Mounties in the Harvey Norman NSW Premiership while Pearson hails from Wagga Wagga and only started playing for Helensburgh in the HNWP in 2021. Pearson arrives at the Dragons with decent praises but the pair will need to find their feet early or coach Soward may have to make a change during the season.

Draw snapshot​

The Dragons will start their campaign against the Titans at McDonald Jones Stadium before the competition shifts to Wollongong for round two. Another home game against the Roosters is locked in at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium in round five on March 26.

Sounds like it may be a long season unless Sowie has some magic.

 

[Eric]

NRLW teams pulling in big sponsorship deals as corporate support for women’s sport soars to new levels​

Corporate support and sponsorship for women’s sport has surged to extraordinary new levels. And it’s not all about our global superstars Ash Barty, Sam Kerr, Elysse Perry and Olympic golden girls Emma McKeon, Ariarne Titmus and Jessica Fox.

The NRLW competition starts on February 27 with a triple header in Newcastle. The Parramatta Eels have completely sold out their shorts and jerseys for their first season in the competition with great brands including Harvey Norman, Telstra and McDonalds.

In the past NRL clubs have been concerned about the extra costs of running professional women’s teams. Not anymore. This is a better result than some of the traditional NRL clubs that often struggle to sell all their playing outfits.

The Eels’ sponsorship will cover all operating costs and player wages and will silence those who opposed pay increases for female players when the debate was raised late last year.

“We have existing sponsors from our NRL team and new ones who have come on board to support the girls,” Eels chief executive Jim Sarantinos said. “They are all locked in for the first two seasons, a couple for longer.

“This allows us to run a sustainable team from day one. It’s a huge result for women’s rugby league in Sydney’s western suburbs. “And this is something we will build on in future years.”

Female participation is by far the fastest growing area of rugby league. There are now 33,278 registered female players, up from around 10,000 in 2016 — an incredible rise considering Covid. “This team will have an enormous impact on young girls in Sydney’s west,” Sarantinos said. “We really have an opportunity to make an imprint for young women in our area and get them playing some footy.”

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This is starting to get big. I hope Sowie has worked some magic or from what I've heard, it might be a difficult season for St George Illawarra.

 

[Eric]

Tarsha Gale Cup First Round Illawarra Steelers v Canberra Raiders​

A second-half hat trick to Illawarra Steelers hooker and captain Salma Nour has proven to be the difference in a see-sawing battle against the Canberra Raiders in the opening round of the under-19 Tarsha Gale Cup.

The Illawarra-based team travelled south to Belconnen Oval in the ACT but were on the back foot from the start when the home team’s strike right centre Georgia Willey exploded off a right foot step to race away and score in the 5th minute.

Not to be outdone, Steelers right centre Jordyn Preston latched onto a classy ball from halfback Sian Allen to skip through a hole untouched to score in the 8th minute.

A dangerous attacking movement by the Raiders on the left edge was finished by second rower Maata Alai Kokeni on the sideline in the 14th minute only for the Steelers to hit back almost immediately thanks to a long distance individual effort by fullback Annabel McDonald.

The Steelers hit the lead for the first time in the match in the 20th minute after a quick shift to the right saw Preston find space to accelerate to the tryline in an impressive 40m effort. The halftime score read 14-10 to the Steelers.

The Canberra-based team began the second half fast with a class kick into the corner winning early field position, leading to centre Roxy Horne latching onto the ball to race away to score and take the lead back.

In the 38th minute Steelers centre Preston juggled the ball in attack before unselfishly passing to unmarked winger Lilli O’Dea who put the ball down for the away team to once more regain the lead, only to have Horne score her second for the Raiders minutes later and snatch it back.

With a number of tiring defenders across the field, Steelers hooker Nour took control and crossed for a hat trick of tries inside 14 minutes to guide the team to a pleasing 36 - 22 victory.

They might be a raw outfit with a stripped back approach, but that has not snuffed out the fire in the belly of the Illawarra Tarsha Gale Cup side.

It will be a Steelers side that barely resembles the team that took the competition by storm last season, before they fell agonisingly short of a grand final berth.

But it is a side that will not lack belief or effort, according to coach Alicia Hawke.

The reinvigoration of the Steelers will be a key storyline in The Daily Telegraph’s opening live stream of the NSW Rugby League season as they travel to Belconnen to take on the Raiders.

Hawke said a change in personnel in the off-season meant the Steelers had almost hit the reset button on their on-field style. “We actually have the biggest change to our team that we have had over the past three or four years,” Hawke said. “Given a lot of our players were the top age last season, we have seen them move on to the next level and we have had a lot of young girls come in. As a lot of other teams are finding with the impacts of Covid, those young girls have had zero football for the past two years.

“A lot are coming in as beginners because they haven’t had a lot of those fundamentals taught to them. The thing is we are seeing a lot of good growth and I am really happy with the work ethic. We have put a lot of focus around efforts and the specific fundamentals. “There will be a shift in our style. We will strip it right back, but there are a few things that are non-negotiable and that is around effort rather than skill.”

Steelers captain Salma Nour, who has gone to the next level after a pre-season in the Dragons NRLW ranks, has been handed the on field reins to guide the next generation of players coming through.

Nour is in her fourth year in the Tarsha Gale Cup ranks, but Hawke said her experience as an NRLW development player had given her the perspective to help motivate the side.

“We have had our (squad) leaders go back to the basics as well,” Hawke said. “Showing girls how to transition from one drill to the next. “They are also looking after them off the field. It was hard for everyone getting out of lockdown last year and we had them doing little check ins with the young players. That group is massively expected to step up this season.

“When (Salma) comes back to Tarsha Gale she is able to guide the young ones. She has an understanding being the young one going into the NRLW. Sometimes when you have been in a system for so long, it is easy to forget how hard it is at the start. But she gets it.”

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They are also bringing up the next generation of NRLW players. Must be something in the water.

 

[Eric]

NRLW Top 30 players 2022: Teen debutants set to change NRLW rugby league forever​

3. KEZIE APPS​

St George Illawarra Dragons, 30, second row, 182cm, 9 games​

The first ever “best of the best”, Apps was the 2016 Dally M Female Player of the Year – and isn’t showing any signs of slowing down. The Jillaroos and New South Wales representative is also the captain of the Dragons, which she led to the NRLW Grand Final in 2019. The barnstorming backrower continues to be a dominant force in the game.

17. EMMA TONEGATO​

St George Illawarra Dragons, 26, outside back, 165cm, 0 games​

Another player yet to play an NRLW game but has already showed plenty of potential, Tonegato is a key signing for the Red V in 2022. The Olympic Rugby Sevens gold medallist is switching back to rugby league after playing for the Jillaroos back in 2013 and will be crucial for the Dragons success.

24. KEELEY DAVIS​

St George Illawarra Dragons, 21, dummy half, 163cm, 10 games​

The youngster has enjoyed a meteoric rise in rugby league since making her NRLW debut for St George Illawarra Dragons as an 18-year-old. She puts her body on the line in every effort and she earned plenty of fans for her try-saving tackle on Kezie Apps during the Illawarra women’s grand final back in 2019. Davis has since gone on to represent Australia and New South Wales.

29. HOLLI WHEELER​

Dragons, 31, second row, 176cm, 7 games

A New South Wales and Australian representative player, Wheeler is a hard-running, tackle busting machine. She only picked up the game in 2017 but made an immediate impression the following year when she was voted as the Dragons first ever women’s Premiership Player of the Year.

26. ELSIE ALBERT​

St George Illawarra Dragons, 25, prop forward, 170cm, 3 games​

Nicknamed the “PNG Jukebox” – because the hits just keep on coming. A fearsome defender and tough competitor, Albert is a key member of the Dragons engine room. The Papua New Guinea Orchids representative is sure to provide plenty of tackling highlights this season.

29. HOLLI WHEELER​

Dragons, 31, second row, 176cm, 7 games​

A New South Wales and Australian representative player, Wheeler is a hard-running, tackle busting machine. She only picked up the game in 2017 but made an immediate impression the following year when she was voted as the Dragons first ever women’s Premiership Player of the Year.

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Seems we have fewer top 30 players than other clubs. Let's hope Sowie can work some magic.

 

[Eric]

I didn't see the game but one can see from the highlights, at least the backline is very slick.

Congrats on the victory and to Sowie for doing an excellent job.

NRLW Match Highlights: Dragons v Titans

The St George Illawarra Dragons and Gold Coast Titans face off in Round 1 of the 2021 Telstra Women's Premiership

www.nrl.com

 

[Eric]

Dragons v Eels, Sunday 3.40pm at WIN Stadium​

St George Illawarra Dragons​		Parramatta Eels​
Emma Tonegato Teagan Berry Jaime Chapman Page McGregor Madison Bartlett Taliah Fuimaono Rachael Pearson	1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.	Botille Vette-Welsh Taina Naividi Tiana Penitani Jocephy Daniels Rikeya Horne Sereana Naitokatoka Maddie Studdon
Forwards​
Elsie Albert Keeley Davis Kezie Apps Talei Holmes Shaylee Bent Holli Wheeler	8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.	Kennedy Cherrington Nita Maynard Tommaya Kelly-Sines Jade Etherden Ellie Johnston Simaima Taufa
Interchange​
Quincy Dodd Kody House Tegan Dymock Janelle Williams	14. 15. 16. 17.	Shirley Mailangi Abbi Church Therese Aiton Filomina Hanisi

St George Illawarra Dragons: Coach Jamie Soward has the luxury of naming the same squad which opened the season with a win over the Titans.

Back-rower Talei Holmes picked up a wrist injury on Sunday and will be monitored during the week.

Fullback Emma Tonegato will again be the focal point of the Dragons' attack after running for 171 metres from 15 runs in Newcastle while skipper Kezie Apps (101 metres) and lock Holli Wheeler (105 metres) led the way up front.

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This is going to be a good game. It seems the regular season race is for #2 spot. Hopefully it'll be St George because they are always a chance of shocking Brisbane in the final.

 

[Eric]

St George Illawarra halfback Pearson backed for Origin ahead of duel with Studdon​

St George Illawarra Dragons team-mates have backed rookie playmaker Rachael Pearson for State of Origin selection as she prepares to go head-to-head with NSW halfback Maddie Studdon in Sunday’s NRLW match against Parramatta at WIN Stadium.​

Pearson, who made a stunning NRLW debut in last Sunday’s 20-12 defeat of the Titans, narrowly missed a place in last year’s Blues squad but Dragons players say she is ready for Origin.

“Definitely.” Jillaroos and Blues utility Keeley Davis said when asked if Pearson was worthy of an Origin jersey. “She is a great half, and she has got a big future in the game. “I think her kicking game is probably one of the best I have played with and for her to take control the way she did in the first game of her career goes to show how much of a leader she is and how good she can be.

“Rat’ is a down to earth, humble girl, who obviously works really hard and she is a cool, calm head on the field. I think she is going to go from strength to strength. She has taken this pressure on so well, so I am just excited to see how she goes this weekend.” Pearson’s eight kicks against the Knights gained 260 metres for the Dragons and included a forced goal-line drop out, while she ran the ball on 11 occasions and produced four tackle breaks to earn the No.7 jersey ahead of Studdon and Broncos captain Ali Brigginshaw in the NRWL team of the week.

“Rachel was the outstanding player on the weekend. Her whole performance was good,” St George Illawarra hooker Quincy Dodd said. “She has got a natural kicking game and she has been taught off [Dragons coach] Jamie Soward, who was a great kicker, so I am glad I get to play alongside her.” However, Soward said the 28-year-old, who grew up playing soccer, AFL and league-tag, deserved the credit for the way she has developed her kicking game.

“She has got probably one of the most natural drops of the ball, with kicking it, that I have ever seen – and that is both men or women,” Soward said “I was really happy for 'Rat'. She is under a lot of pressure this year. She didn’t know if she was ready for NRLW, or higher honours, but I think she does now.”

Studdon, who steered the Eels to an historic 13-12 defeat of the Knights with a late field goal in their first NRLW match, edged out Pearson for the NSW No.7 jersey last year by starring opposite her City’s 40-16 triumph against Country. The former Jillaroos playmaker welcomed another challenge from Pearson for her Origin position and said she was looking forward to Sunday’s clash.

“It’s healthy competition, everyone is pushing to be the best,” Studdon said. “It keeps you on your toes and you’ve just got to keep striving to get selected. It’s good for the women’s game. “There’s a lot of good halves coming through. We’ve watched a little bit of her clips playing for the Dragons and she was good. She’s a fantastic player and has a good kicking game. We’re really going to have to work hard to shut her down and all their other players.”

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That's a terrible nickname but this team is getting a lot of positive press coverage. In the pre-season some experts were predicting them for the spoon due to massive turnover of players but now Sowie seems to have them firing and those experts saying they were going to get the spoon are running for cover with their tails between their legs.

 

[Eric]

Six breakout stars from the 2021 NRLW​

The delayed 2021 NRLW season has showcased some amazing new talent, including rookie St George Illawarra Dragons halfback Rachael Pearson, who is hoping to cap her debut season with a grand final win.​

Dragons halfback Rachael Pearson admits the delayed 2021 season has been a whirlwind experience in what has been a breakout year for the grand final-bound playmaker. Hailing from the small town of Hay in southwest NSW, Pearson has become one of the standout stars of the 2021 competition in what is her debut NRLW season.

Her rookie year has been an incredible feat considering she is the second leading points-scorer and sits only behind Brisbane’s Lauren Brown in most goals kicked this season. Pearson has climbed the ranks in the Harvey Norman NSW Women’s Premiership with the Helensburgh Tigers, playing alongside Kezie Apps and Jessica Sergis in the 2021 season. Now, the 28-year-old is preparing to play in Sunday’s grand final in Redcliffe as she continues her meteoric rise in the NRLW.

“I don’t know when it will sink in,” Pearson said. “Probably when we run out (on Sunday) and the whistle blows I suppose. “I’m trying to treat it as just another game and not play the game in my head before we get to it. I want to soak up this week because it is exciting.” Pearson packed up her bags three years ago and travelled the 700km from Hay to Wollongong to pursue an NRLW contract – and now that sacrifice has paid dividends having secured the Dragons No.7 jersey. She has scored a try, set up another and has a 96 per cent tackle efficiency rate across her five games so far this year.

Her kicking game has also proved to be a gamebreaking asset, scoring all 10 points (one try, three goals) in the Dragons 10-0 win over the Eels in Round 2. She said making it through to this year’s NRLW grand final was a massive achievement from the club and her teammates. “We weren’t expecting earlier on in the year to be in the grand final, but it’s good to prove people wrong,” she said. “We deserve to be there.” Pearson is no stranger to travelling for footy, and nor is her family, and said a strong contingent of supporters will be heading to Redcliffe on Sunday to cheer her on.

“I’ll have a bit of a fanbase and family come up for the game,” she said. “They were all looking at tickets as soon as the whistle blew last Sunday. “They’re just working out where they will fly from et cetera because it’ll be pretty pricey but they’re willing to pay to come up to Redcliffe and watch. “It means a lot to have them there. “In Round 1 they showed a sign (in the crowd) that said ‘Rat No.7, All The Way From Hay’ and it’s been sitting at home until the grand final, so it will make another appearance in the crowd.”

OTHER BREAKOUT STARS OF THE 2021 NRLW SEASON​

EMMA TONEGATO (St George Illawarra Dragons)​

It’s hard to go past the incredible form of the Dragons No.1 this season. The former Olympic Rugby 7’s star has scored four tries in six games and averages 161m a game in her debut NRLW season. “She has complemented the Dragons so well,” Donald said. “She has shown what level these players can go to as a full-time athlete.”

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They could have picked half a dozen breakout stars for the Dragons. Shaylee Bent and Taliah Fuimaono immediately come to mind.

 

[Eric]

Congratulations to our superstar fullback on winning the Dally M player of the year women's prize.​

 

[Chris M]

Congratulations to our superstar fullback on winning the Dally M player of the year women's prize.​

View attachment 36

She was a special to win. The best fullback in the club....... Well, definately a better fullback than Mbye and runs harder than Sloan.

 

[Eric]

Historic finish in Dally M count as Mille Boyle and Emma Tonegato cannot be separated​

Standout seasons from Broncos forward Mille Boyle and Dragons rookie Emma Tonegato have been rewarded as the Dally M female players of the year count created history.​

Barnstorming Bronco Mille Boyle and Dragons rookie Emma Tonegato have been crowned joint Dally M Female Players of the Year in the first dual winner in NRLW history. The pair couldn’t be split, both polling eight points at the end of the regular season, following standout seasons from each player. Boyle has been a crucial member of the Broncos for the past two years of their three-year NRLW dynasty.

Earlier this year, she broke the record for most run metres by a forward in NRLW history, barnstorming her way through 223 metres. Such was her fast-paced start to the season, she was equal first after just two rounds alongside Parramatta’s Simaima Taufa, polling five points. Taufa was outright leader after four rounds, polling seven points, before Boyle and Tonegato both polled three points in the final round of the regular season.

Olympic gold medallist Tonegato capped off a spectacular debut NRLW season by also claiming the joint 2021 Dally M Female Player of the Year award. The Dragons fullback was one of the standouts of the 2021 season, leading the competition in run metres (906m), linebreak assists (8) and equal most try assists.

“Definitely was not expecting that,” Boyle said after accepting the award. Some of the game’s biggest stars gathered at Brisbane’s Howard Smith Wharves on Thursday night for the first ever standalone women’s awards evening. The likes of Brisbane’s Ali Brigginshaw, Dragons skipper Kezie Apps and Parramatta’s Maddie Studdon were in attendance, while Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett was also spotted at the ceremony.

The 2020 Dally M Female Player of the Year Ali Brigginshaw described the standalone women’s awards evening as a significant occasion. “It’s a momentous occasion to have an all-female Dally M,” Brigginshaw said. “I’m stoked to see all the girls here and it’s a great celebration of the talent in our game.” Gold Coast youngster Shaniah Power took out the Try of the Year award, while Dragons fullback Emma Tonegato took out the Tackle of the Year for her shot on Roosters centre Jessica Sergis.

Bennett presented the Coach of the Year award to Dragons mentor and rookie NRLW coach Jamie Soward. Gold Coast skipper Brittany Breayley-Nati took out this year’s Captain of the Year award.

2021 NRLW AWARDS RECIPIENTS

TRY OF THE YEAR

Shaniah Power – Gold Coast Titans – Round 4

TACKLE OF THE YEAR

Emma Tonegato – St George Illawarra Dragons – Round 5

CAPTAIN OF THE YEAR

Brittany Breayley-Nati – Gold Coast Titans

COACH OF THE YEAR

Jamie Soward – St George Illawarra Dragons

FEMALE PLAYERS OF THE YEAR

Millie Boyle – Brisbane Broncos

Emma Tonegato – St George Illawarra Dragons

 

[Morgan]

Historic finish in Dally M count as Mille Boyle and Emma Tonegato cannot be separated​

Standout seasons from Broncos forward Mille Boyle and Dragons rookie Emma Tonegato have been rewarded as the Dally M female players of the year count created history.​

Barnstorming Bronco Mille Boyle and Dragons rookie Emma Tonegato have been crowned joint Dally M Female Players of the Year in the first dual winner in NRLW history. The pair couldn’t be split, both polling eight points at the end of the regular season, following standout seasons from each player. Boyle has been a crucial member of the Broncos for the past two years of their three-year NRLW dynasty.

Earlier this year, she broke the record for most run metres by a forward in NRLW history, barnstorming her way through 223 metres. Such was her fast-paced start to the season, she was equal first after just two rounds alongside Parramatta’s Simaima Taufa, polling five points. Taufa was outright leader after four rounds, polling seven points, before Boyle and Tonegato both polled three points in the final round of the regular season.

View attachment 37Olympic gold medallist Tonegato capped off a spectacular debut NRLW season by also claiming the joint 2021 Dally M Female Player of the Year award. The Dragons fullback was one of the standouts of the 2021 season, leading the competition in run metres (906m), linebreak assists (8) and equal most try assists.

“Definitely was not expecting that,” Boyle said after accepting the award. Some of the game’s biggest stars gathered at Brisbane’s Howard Smith Wharves on Thursday night for the first ever standalone women’s awards evening. The likes of Brisbane’s Ali Brigginshaw, Dragons skipper Kezie Apps and Parramatta’s Maddie Studdon were in attendance, while Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett was also spotted at the ceremony.

The 2020 Dally M Female Player of the Year Ali Brigginshaw described the standalone women’s awards evening as a significant occasion. “It’s a momentous occasion to have an all-female Dally M,” Brigginshaw said. “I’m stoked to see all the girls here and it’s a great celebration of the talent in our game.” Gold Coast youngster Shaniah Power took out the Try of the Year award, while Dragons fullback Emma Tonegato took out the Tackle of the Year for her shot on Roosters centre Jessica Sergis.

Bennett presented the Coach of the Year award to Dragons mentor and rookie NRLW coach Jamie Soward. Gold Coast skipper Brittany Breayley-Nati took out this year’s Captain of the Year award.

2021 NRLW AWARDS RECIPIENTS

TRY OF THE YEAR

Shaniah Power – Gold Coast Titans – Round 4

TACKLE OF THE YEAR

Emma Tonegato – St George Illawarra Dragons – Round 5

CAPTAIN OF THE YEAR

Brittany Breayley-Nati – Gold Coast Titans

COACH OF THE YEAR

Jamie Soward – St George Illawarra Dragons

FEMALE PLAYERS OF THE YEAR

Millie Boyle – Brisbane Broncos

Emma Tonegato – St George Illawarra Dragons

If not for these girls, this season would be so grim......

 

[Chris M]

Historic finish in Dally M count as Mille Boyle and Emma Tonegato cannot be separated​

Standout seasons from Broncos forward Mille Boyle and Dragons rookie Emma Tonegato have been rewarded as the Dally M female players of the year count created history.​

Barnstorming Bronco Mille Boyle and Dragons rookie Emma Tonegato have been crowned joint Dally M Female Players of the Year in the first dual winner in NRLW history. The pair couldn’t be split, both polling eight points at the end of the regular season, following standout seasons from each player. Boyle has been a crucial member of the Broncos for the past two years of their three-year NRLW dynasty.

Earlier this year, she broke the record for most run metres by a forward in NRLW history, barnstorming her way through 223 metres. Such was her fast-paced start to the season, she was equal first after just two rounds alongside Parramatta’s Simaima Taufa, polling five points. Taufa was outright leader after four rounds, polling seven points, before Boyle and Tonegato both polled three points in the final round of the regular season.

View attachment 37Olympic gold medallist Tonegato capped off a spectacular debut NRLW season by also claiming the joint 2021 Dally M Female Player of the Year award. The Dragons fullback was one of the standouts of the 2021 season, leading the competition in run metres (906m), linebreak assists (8) and equal most try assists.

“Definitely was not expecting that,” Boyle said after accepting the award. Some of the game’s biggest stars gathered at Brisbane’s Howard Smith Wharves on Thursday night for the first ever standalone women’s awards evening. The likes of Brisbane’s Ali Brigginshaw, Dragons skipper Kezie Apps and Parramatta’s Maddie Studdon were in attendance, while Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett was also spotted at the ceremony.

The 2020 Dally M Female Player of the Year Ali Brigginshaw described the standalone women’s awards evening as a significant occasion. “It’s a momentous occasion to have an all-female Dally M,” Brigginshaw said. “I’m stoked to see all the girls here and it’s a great celebration of the talent in our game.” Gold Coast youngster Shaniah Power took out the Try of the Year award, while Dragons fullback Emma Tonegato took out the Tackle of the Year for her shot on Roosters centre Jessica Sergis.

Bennett presented the Coach of the Year award to Dragons mentor and rookie NRLW coach Jamie Soward. Gold Coast skipper Brittany Breayley-Nati took out this year’s Captain of the Year award.

2021 NRLW AWARDS RECIPIENTS

TRY OF THE YEAR

Shaniah Power – Gold Coast Titans – Round 4

TACKLE OF THE YEAR

Emma Tonegato – St George Illawarra Dragons – Round 5

CAPTAIN OF THE YEAR

Brittany Breayley-Nati – Gold Coast Titans

COACH OF THE YEAR

Jamie Soward – St George Illawarra Dragons

FEMALE PLAYERS OF THE YEAR

Millie Boyle – Brisbane Broncos

Emma Tonegato – St George Illawarra Dragons

Looking more forward to the next game than the NRL game tomorrow.

 

[Eric]

NRLW television ratings soar in bumper 2022 season​

New television ratings data shows a surge in interest in the NRLW competition, with some matches rivalling NRL games for viewers. On the eve of the first NRLW grand final involving two NSW clubs – the Dragons and Roosters – the Herald has obtained television ratings data for the 2022 season that reveals the extent of the growth of the women’s game.

In 2020 – the last season played due to COVID constraints – the average audience for an NRLW match on Channel Nine was about 98,000 and on Foxtel about 35,000, taking the combined average to about 133,000. Channel Nine is owned by Nine Entertainment Co, which also owns this masthead.

In 2022, the average audience on Channel Nine has eclipsed the combined average for both broadcasters in 2020. About 150,000 people have tuned in to watch NRLW matches on Channel Nine in metropolitan and regional markets. The 53 per cent increase in viewers on Nine is reflected in a similar rise on Foxtel, which has seen most games attract between 50,000 and 60,000 viewers.

The highest rating match of the season on Nine – a record-breaking 40-4 win by the Dragons over the Knights – attracted a little more than 142,000 viewers in metropolitan and regional areas on Channel Nine alone. The combined average of just over 200,000 viewers is about a 50 per cent increase on 2020, and rivals that of NRL and AFL matches that are played in early timeslots on Saturdays and Sundays.

The numbers also vindicate the NRL’s decision to expand to eight teams in 2023 and 10 teams in 2024, as the product has not been diluted by the inclusion of the Titans, Knights and Eels this year. “Probably the last couple of years, the girls are starting to get a bit more profile,” Jillaroos coach Brad Donald said. “A lot of girls have come back, we have the rugby girls doing really well that have crossed back over, and we have really strong pathways.

“We’ve had the national competition going for a few years, where all the best under-19s come in from all over the country. That’s certainly helped the depth. “Development camps since 2018 when the NRLW started – the transition from those players that have been identified and sent home with training programs, a whole bunch of advice on nutrition strength, recovery, a lot of them have stepped up and played NRLW.

“Once they’ve been exposed at that level, they’ve gone away and worked really hard and found themselves with an NRLW contract, which is great.” Donald flagged star Dragons fullback Emma Tonegato as a likely inclusion in the Australian squad after a brilliant debut season. Tonegato is also expected to line up for NSW in the highly anticipated return of State of Origin on June 24, following the lead set by fellow cross-code star Evania Pelite. Pelite, who was a standout star for the Titans this season, was named in the Queensland squad on Thursday.

“As soon as the NRLW grand final is over on the weekend, I’m sure Kylie Hilder will be tapping Emma on the shoulder and be asking if she can play in the NSW side,” Donald said. “Basically, from that point, we would love to see those girls make themselves available. Both of them, they’ve been in the top five players this year.”

---

Just more and more good publicity. I don't know in the short term but I think in the long term, they are going to bring a lot of money into the club.

 

[Chris M]

Historic finish in Dally M count as Mille Boyle and Emma Tonegato cannot be separated​

Standout seasons from Broncos forward Mille Boyle and Dragons rookie Emma Tonegato have been rewarded as the Dally M female players of the year count created history.​

Barnstorming Bronco Mille Boyle and Dragons rookie Emma Tonegato have been crowned joint Dally M Female Players of the Year in the first dual winner in NRLW history. The pair couldn’t be split, both polling eight points at the end of the regular season, following standout seasons from each player. Boyle has been a crucial member of the Broncos for the past two years of their three-year NRLW dynasty.

Earlier this year, she broke the record for most run metres by a forward in NRLW history, barnstorming her way through 223 metres. Such was her fast-paced start to the season, she was equal first after just two rounds alongside Parramatta’s Simaima Taufa, polling five points. Taufa was outright leader after four rounds, polling seven points, before Boyle and Tonegato both polled three points in the final round of the regular season.

View attachment 37Olympic gold medallist Tonegato capped off a spectacular debut NRLW season by also claiming the joint 2021 Dally M Female Player of the Year award. The Dragons fullback was one of the standouts of the 2021 season, leading the competition in run metres (906m), linebreak assists (8) and equal most try assists.

“Definitely was not expecting that,” Boyle said after accepting the award. Some of the game’s biggest stars gathered at Brisbane’s Howard Smith Wharves on Thursday night for the first ever standalone women’s awards evening. The likes of Brisbane’s Ali Brigginshaw, Dragons skipper Kezie Apps and Parramatta’s Maddie Studdon were in attendance, while Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett was also spotted at the ceremony.

The 2020 Dally M Female Player of the Year Ali Brigginshaw described the standalone women’s awards evening as a significant occasion. “It’s a momentous occasion to have an all-female Dally M,” Brigginshaw said. “I’m stoked to see all the girls here and it’s a great celebration of the talent in our game.” Gold Coast youngster Shaniah Power took out the Try of the Year award, while Dragons fullback Emma Tonegato took out the Tackle of the Year for her shot on Roosters centre Jessica Sergis.

Bennett presented the Coach of the Year award to Dragons mentor and rookie NRLW coach Jamie Soward. Gold Coast skipper Brittany Breayley-Nati took out this year’s Captain of the Year award.

2021 NRLW AWARDS RECIPIENTS

TRY OF THE YEAR

Shaniah Power – Gold Coast Titans – Round 4

TACKLE OF THE YEAR

Emma Tonegato – St George Illawarra Dragons – Round 5

CAPTAIN OF THE YEAR

Brittany Breayley-Nati – Gold Coast Titans

COACH OF THE YEAR

Jamie Soward – St George Illawarra Dragons

FEMALE PLAYERS OF THE YEAR

Millie Boyle – Brisbane Broncos

Emma Tonegato – St George Illawarra Dragons

And dominated the team of the year. 7 of the best 13. Not too bad at all. And best coach to top it off.

• 1. Emma Tonegato (Dragons)
  Brisbane's Tamika Upton and Parramatta's Botille Vette-Welch both enjoyed strong seasons, but who else could it be? The former Olympic gold medallist hadn't played rugby league since 2013 before returning to the sport this season but she's been in terrific form for the Dragons at the back.
  
  In six games, Tonegato showcased her skills as a runner and as a passer — she's equal second in the league for tries (four), fourth for tackle busts (25) and equal first for line break assists (six) and was a deserving co-winner of the NRLW Dally M with Millie Boyle.
• 
  
• 5. Madison Bartlett (Dragons)
  Wingers have a lot more jobs than they used to, but the most important one is still scoring tries and Bartlett has taken full use of St George Illawarra's good form to land five of them, the most of any player in the competition despite missing a game to suspension. She's currently level with Tamika Upton as the most prolific try scorer in the competition's history with seven.
• 
  
• 6. Taliah Fuimaono (Dragons)
  St George Illawarra came into the season with two rookies in the halves and both have since become stars. For Fuimaono, it's her creativity and sharp running game that have made her one of the most dangerous playmakers in the league and she's grown in confidence as the season went on.
• 
  
• 7. Rachael Pearson (Dragons)
  Another first-year player who has become a star over time, Pearson's long-kicking game is one of St George Illawarra's greatest weapons and her style makes her a perfect match for Fuimaono. She makes this team just ahead of her opposite number in the grand final, Raecene McGregor.
  
  The Hay product is a late starter for the NRLW at 26 but she's quickly become one of the game's premier halfbacks and is in the box seat to debut for New South Wales later this year.
  
  "I was just happy to get one game, just to debut, because you're not guaranteed anything," Pearson said.
  
  "It's all been an exciting blur, I can't believe how quickly it's gone. I doubted myself a little bit to start, during the pre-season I really felt I was stepping into another level of football and I didn't know if I should be here or not.
  
  "But [coach Jamie Soward] backed me, he gave me that confidence, and I've had an alright year. We're in the grand final, so we must be doing something right."
• 
  
• 9. Keeley Davis (Dragons)
  It's been a banner year for hookers with Gold Coast skipper Brittany Breayley-Natai and Brisbane rake Lauren Brown both enjoying strong years, but the only choice is St George Illawarra's Keeley Davis, who should have been in the conversation for Dally M player of the year along with Tonegato and Boyle.
  
  The 21-year old spent the season playing the opening stages of matches at dummy half before switching to lock and working in conjunction with interchange rake Quincy Dodd, and it's helped transform the Dragons into a devastating attacking unit.
  
  All four members of the Dragons' spine have enjoyed tremendous seasons, due in no small part to Davis's influence from first receiver – for her part, Davis credits the influence of coach Jamie Soward in helping her hit form.
  
  "I can overthink things a little bit. He just wanted me to play super simple and that's when I play my best footy. Just do the basics and the good footy comes off the back of that," Davis said.
  
  "I'm loving lock, it's so different to hooker, but footy is all the same."
• 
  
• 10. Elsie Albert (Dragons)
  Steph Hancock, rugby league's ageless wonder, nearly snagged this spot after a tremendous season in her return from retirement, but we have to go with the Papua New Guinea Orchid, Elsie Albert.
  
  Albert plays the game in classic PNG style – that's hard, uncompromising and furiously physical – and is the most improved player in the game this year.
  
  With Kezie Apps missing much of the beginning of the season through injury, it was Albert who picked up the slack and emerged as a forward leader for the Dragons.
• 
  
• 12. Shaylee Bent (Dragons)
  Bent had already played for New South Wales before this season but she's another of the Dragons' big improvers for 2022.
  
  The former centre has always provided plenty of strike on the edge of the ruck, but her involvement has become more frequent this season and, like Hall, she offers the perfect combination of muscle and flash. Her 70-metre solo try against the Broncos is clearly the best individual score of the season.
• 
  
• Coach: Jamie Soward
  The Dragons have the highest representation of any side in this team of the year, and it's due in no small part to Soward, who has done a wonderful job in his first season as coach.
  
  The 216-game NRL veteran's direct style worked wonders at St George Illawarra, who were expected to struggle after a mass player exodus. Not only have the Red V uncovered new stars like Fuimaono and Pearson, veterans like Kezie Apps and Holli Wheeler have had their best seasons in years.
  
  "He's fresh on taking on that head coach role but he's embraced it while putting his own spin on it. He was such a competitive player when he was running around and that's how he is when he coaches," Wheeler said.
  
  "He prepares for a game as coach as he would when he was a player, he still has his superstitions and his game-day routine. His professional spin on it has really allowed us to take that approach.
  
  "He's been firm with us when we've needed it and kept us in line when we needed it. One of the things he said to us at the start was, 'I don't coach female footballers, I coach footballers'.
  
  "He completely supports us, and that shows in our individual games."

 

[jodragon40]

Ive watch the women all season and I must say that their techniques have improved greatly, the dragons club can be proud of the womens efforts and their coach Soward. Without putting a mocker on them I hope that they lift the trophy tomorrow because it just goes to show you what hard working, good game plans and team solidarity can achieve. My only regret is that our 1st grade team will be playing tonight and wont learn from what this womens team have achieved. Win lose or draw they have been a shining light in a club where not many lights are shining at the moment.

 

[Morgan]

Lets hope our good girls can bring some joy to an otherwise miserable season.

I was going to say, 'lets get in behind our girls' but no, decided against that....