Team List: Women's team begins title defence

Wests Tigers premiership-winning Harvey Norman Women’s team has been named for this weekend’s season-opener, as the team begins its quest to go back-to-back.

And what better way to get the ball rolling than a Grand Final rematch against Cronulla Sharks at Campbelltown Sports Stadium.

Yep, the same team, at the same venue, where a triumphant Wests Tigers team claimed its maiden title in the NSW Women’s Premiership.

The nucleus of that team remains, mixed with a handful of new additions, including a gold-medal-winning Australian Bobsledder, Ashleigh Werner.

Werner missed out on Olympic Bobsleigh qualification last year due to a bout of Covid and is eager to make her Wests Tigers debut.

I feel so incredibly honoured to be stepping onto the field for Wests Tigers.

Ashleigh Werner

Also pulling on Wests Tigers colours for the first time is second-rower, Ruby Jean Kennard.

Head coach Adel Hage says the introduction of an NRLW team for Wests Tigers this season presents new challenges for his squad.

Missing from the Round 1 line-up is captain Emily Curtain and Botille Vette-Welsh, who are both returning from knee injuries.

"With the NRLW later in the season, we’ve got to keep a closer watch on player workloads, and that’s the case with Emily and Botille," said Hage.

It’s a lengthy season with the NSW Women’s Premiership followed on by the NRLW, and we’re mindful of that.

Adel Hage

Two competitions in the one year also provides added opportunities for Wests Tigers women.

“This season, as opposed to last season, many of our players will be playing for NRLW contracts, so that’s exciting,” added Hage.

“It’s great that we have the core of last year’s squad on deck for the new campaign, with a few new faces as well.”

Hage is keen to build on the style of play which guided the team to grand final glory last season.

We want to encourage a style of footy that is expansive and entertaining. 

Adel Hage

“I know our NRL squad has been preparing with an attacking mindset, and we will see that flowing through the women’s teams as well.”