Posted by RLPA
RLPA Celebrate Women in League Round
RLPA Celebrate Women in League Round The Rugby League Players’ Association (RLPA) joins the game in celebrating the Harvey Norman Women in League Round and the contribution of women at all levels of Rugby League.
Chief Executive Officer, Clint Newton, paid tribute to the thousands of women across Australia who paved the way for the current generation and those currently playing a significant role in the sport while recognising those women who contribute so significantly to the RLPA.
“It is important that we recognise the invaluable contribution of women to Rugby League.” Newton said. “Our actions will always reflect our priorities, and this round is a great way to prioritise the significant contribution and achievements of women across the game.
“The RLPA is fortunate to have so many passionate and strong women contributing to the progress of the Association, led by our Chair Dr Deidre Anderson and RLPA Director, Pippa Leary.”
The voice of women rugby league players is essential for the advancement of the RLPA. Having established a Women’s Player Advisory Group and appointing Sydney Roosters NRL star Hannah Southwell as the first-ever female player to the Board of Directors, it is committed to providing a platform for its members to contribute towards the strategy and outcomes of the Association.
“The growth of the women’s game at all levels has been impressive, and the influence of elite female players to that growth must continue to be recognised. In partnership with the NRL, State Leagues and Clubs, the playing group have never been more committed to promoting, supporting and developing the game for future generations and creating an environment where talented female players can thrive,” added Newton.
General Manager – Elite Women and International Relations, Lina Caccamo has played an important role in enhancing the role of the elite female players within the RLPA. Caccamo said “The growth of Women’s Rugby League goes beyond having more players participate in the sport; it is about ensuring our players have the opportunity to actively participate in the direction and success of Women’s Rugby League. The role the players are playing in contributing to the game through the Women’s Player Advisory Group is already notable, and I’m looking forward to what else we can accomplish together.
Board Member Hannah Southwell said, “The Harvey Norman Women in League Round is a great way to highlight the fantastic things being done by Women and for Women in our game. Seeing the support for our game grow has been fantastic and being able to contribute to shaping the experience for players today and into the future is also incredibly exciting.”
RLPA Chair, Dr Diedre Anderson said, “It’s a critical moment in the history of the women’s game. The RLPA looks forward to working with the playing group so that all current and future generations of players get the opportunity to be actively involved in shaping and building the capability of the women’s game.”
The RLPA will continue to support all the games stakeholders to ensure we generate improved outcomes and conditions for our Female athletes and advance leadership and development opportunities while promoting the value of inclusiveness and diversity in sport.