Is there a women’s NRL team?

4 min.

Women’s rugby league has experienced tremendous growth in recent years, with passionate players and fans helping the sport thrive. But if you’re new to the game or curious about its structure, you might wonder: Is there a women’s NRL team? The answer is a resounding yes! This article delves into the world of the NRL Women’s Premiership (NRLW), exploring its teams, players, and impact on rugby league.

Yes, There Are Women’s NRL Teams!

The NRL Women’s Premiership (NRLW) is the elite women’s rugby league competition in Australia. Launched in 2018, the league provides a professional platform for female athletes to showcase their skills at the highest level.

NRLW Overview

Number of Teams: As of 2023, there are 10 teams competing in the NRLW.
Season Structure: A regular season followed by semi-finals and a Grand Final.
Expansion: The league has steadily grown, reflecting increased interest and investment in women’s rugby league.

Which Teams Play in the NRLW?

The NRLW includes teams representing some of the most iconic clubs in rugby league. Here’s the current list of teams:

Brisbane Broncos
Newcastle Knights
Sydney Roosters
St. George Illawarra Dragons
Gold Coast Titans
Canberra Raiders
Cronulla Sharks
North Queensland Cowboys
Parramatta Eels
Wests Tigers

Each team represents a proud history of rugby league and a commitment to supporting the women’s game.

Expansion History:

The league started with 4 teams in 2018.
Gradual expansion brought it to 10 teams by 2023, with plans for future growth.

For more details on the teams, visit the NRLW Official Website.

How the NRLW Differs from the NRL

While the NRLW and the NRL (men’s competition) share many similarities, there are a few key differences:

Season Length

The NRLW season is shorter than the NRL season, typically running for 10-12 weeks, including finals.

Salary Cap

The NRLW salary cap is $900,000 per team (2023), significantly smaller than the NRL’s cap due to differences in revenue and league size.

Audience and Growth

The NRLW attracts a growing fan base, with increased broadcast deals and sponsorships fueling its expansion.

Why the NRLW Matters

The introduction and growth of the NRLW have been transformative for women’s rugby league and sports in general. Here’s why it’s important:

1. Opportunities for Female Athletes

The NRLW provides a professional pathway for women to pursue rugby league at the highest level.
Players like Ali Brigginshaw, Millie Boyle, and Tarryn Aiken have become role models for aspiring athletes.

2. Increased Visibility

Broadcasting partnerships with networks like Nine Network and Foxtel ensure widespread access to games, bringing more fans into the fold.

3. Community Impact

NRLW teams are deeply connected to their communities, inspiring the next generation of players and fans.

The Journey of the NRLW

The road to establishing a women’s rugby league competition wasn’t easy. Here’s a quick timeline of key milestones:

Before the NRLW: Grassroots and State Competitions

Women’s rugby league has been played in Australia for decades, with state competitions like the Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership laying the groundwork.

2018: The NRLW Launch

The inaugural NRLW season featured four teams (Broncos, Roosters, Dragons, Warriors).
The Brisbane Broncos claimed the first title, setting the tone for the league’s competitive nature.

2021-2023: Rapid Expansion

Additional teams joined, including the Gold Coast Titans, Canberra Raiders, and Cronulla Sharks.
The league grew to 10 teams in 2023, reflecting increased investment and interest.

How to Watch NRLW Games

Fans can catch NRLW action through a variety of platforms:

1. Free-to-Air TV

Nine Network broadcasts select NRLW games, including the Grand Final and marquee matches.

2. Streaming Platforms

9Now: Free streaming of games broadcast on Nine Network.
Kayo Sports: Offers live coverage and replays of all NRLW matches.
WatchNRL: An international streaming service for fans outside Australia.

For schedules and broadcast details, visit the NRLW Schedule Page.

What’s Next for the NRLW?

The future of the NRLW is bright, with plans to expand the league, increase player salaries, and build a larger fan base.

1. Expansion to More Teams

The NRLW aims to include all NRL clubs eventually, providing more opportunities for players and fans.

2. Longer Season

A full-length season (similar to the NRL) is under discussion, ensuring more games and a consistent schedule.

3. Greater Investment

Sponsorship deals and increased broadcasting revenue will help grow the league and improve conditions for players.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the NRLW have a salary cap?
A: Yes, the NRLW salary cap for 2023 is $900,000 per team, with plans for future increases.

Q: How many teams are in the NRLW?
A: As of 2023, there are 10 teams in the NRLW.

Q: Can I watch NRLW games for free?
A: Yes! Select games, including the Grand Final, are broadcast on the Nine Network and streamed on 9Now.

Conclusion: The Rise of Women’s Rugby League

So, is there a women’s NRL team? Absolutely! The NRLW has established itself as a premier competition, showcasing the incredible talent and passion of female rugby league players. With 10 teams, growing fan support, and a bright future, the NRLW is a testament to the power of inclusivity and opportunity in sports.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the game, there’s never been a better time to get involved. Watch a match, support your favorite team, and join the journey of women’s rugby league. If this article inspired you, share it with friends and spread the word about the amazing world of the NRLW!