How long is the NRLW season?

5 min.

The National Rugby League Women’s (NRLW) competition is a highlight of Australia’s sporting calendar, showcasing elite women’s rugby league talent and thrilling fans across the nation. But for many newcomers and even seasoned fans, one question often arises: How long is the NRLW season? With the league growing rapidly in popularity and structure, understanding its schedule is key to fully appreciating the excitement it delivers.

In this article, we’ll dive into the duration of the NRLW season, explore the factors influencing its structure, and provide an overview of what fans can expect in 2025.

How Long is the NRLW Season?

In 2025, the NRLW season spans approximately 12 weeks, including the regular season and finals. This is a significant growth compared to earlier iterations of the league, which had shorter seasons due to its nascent stage and smaller team count.

Key Breakdown of the NRLW Season:

Regular Season: 9 weeks (10 teams playing each other in a round-robin format).
Finals Series: 3 weeks (including semi-finals and a grand final).

This expanded schedule reflects the league’s growth, with more teams and games added to cater to a rising fan base and a broader talent pool.

Evolution of the NRLW Season Length

The NRLW has come a long way since its inception in 2018, when the season lasted just a few weeks. Back then, the league featured only four teams, and the competition was structured to fit into the men’s NRL finals series window. Here’s how the NRLW season has evolved over the years:

2018–2020: The Foundation Years

Duration: 4–6 weeks.
Structure: A compact competition with four teams and a round-robin format, followed by a single grand final.
Challenges: Limited resources and scheduling constraints kept the season short.

2021–2023: Gradual Expansion

Duration: 7–9 weeks.
Structure: The number of teams increased to six in 2021 and then to eight in 2023, leading to longer seasons.
Highlights: The league began scheduling games in alignment with the men’s NRL season, attracting larger audiences and greater sponsorships.

2025: A New Era

Duration: 12 weeks.
Structure: With 10 teams in the league, the season includes a full round-robin schedule and an expanded finals series.
Impact: The longer season reflects the league’s growth and its commitment to professionalism.

Factors Influencing the Length of the NRLW Season

Several factors play a role in determining the length of the NRLW season:

1. League Expansion

The NRLW has grown from 4 teams in 2018 to 10 teams in 2025. As more teams join, the number of games increases, naturally extending the season.

2. Player Welfare

Rugby league is a physically demanding sport, and player welfare remains a top priority. The NRLW’s governing body ensures that the season length balances competitive intensity with adequate rest and recovery for players.

3. Broadcasting and Commercial Opportunities

A longer season allows for more games to be televised, attracting greater sponsorship and advertising revenue. This financial growth supports the league’s sustainability and expansion.

4. Fan Demand

As the NRLW gains popularity, fans have called for a longer season to enjoy more games and follow their favorite teams. The extended season is a direct response to this growing demand.

Key Dates in the NRLW 2025 Season

Pre-Season

The pre-season typically begins in May, with players participating in training camps, trials, and fitness assessments. These preparations are crucial for teams to hit the ground running.

Regular Season

The regular season kicks off in June, running for 9 weeks. During this time, each team plays a mix of home and away games, building momentum toward the finals.

Finals Series

The finals series begins in late August, featuring:

Semi-Finals: The top four teams compete in elimination matches.
Grand Final: The two winners from the semi-finals face off to claim the championship.

Grand Final Day

The NRLW Grand Final is typically held on the same day as the men’s NRL Grand Final, creating a festival-like atmosphere for rugby league fans.

Why a Longer NRLW Season Matters

The extended NRLW season benefits players, fans, and the broader rugby league community in several ways:

More Opportunities for Players: A longer season means more games, giving players increased exposure and opportunities to showcase their talent.
Enhanced Fan Engagement: Fans can follow their favorite teams for a longer period, deepening their connection to the league.
Improved Player Development: The additional game time helps players gain valuable experience and improve their skills.
Greater Visibility for Women’s Sport: An extended season ensures that women’s rugby league remains in the spotlight for a longer period.

How to Stay Updated on the NRLW Season

Staying informed about the NRLW season is essential for fans who don’t want to miss a moment of the action. Here are some tips:

Official NRL Platforms

NRL Website and App: Visit the NRL website or download the app for the latest news, schedules, and results.
Social Media: Follow the NRL’s official accounts on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook for updates.

Broadcast Partners

Major broadcasters like Channel Nine, Fox Sports, and Kayo Sports air NRLW matches live. Check their schedules for game times and additional coverage.

Community Engagement

Join local rugby league clubs and fan groups to stay connected with the NRLW community. These networks often share updates, discussions, and event details.

What Fans Are Saying About the NRLW Season Length

The extended season has sparked excitement among fans, with many praising the league for its growth and commitment to women’s sport.

“The NRLW season keeps getting better every year. I love that we now have more games to enjoy!” – Jessica M.
“It’s amazing to see the league expanding. The longer season gives these incredible athletes the platform they deserve.” – Tom H.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the NRLW?

As the NRLW continues to evolve, fans can expect even more exciting developments in the coming years. Potential changes include:

Further Expansion: With the league’s growing popularity, additional teams may join, further extending the season.
Improved Scheduling: As the NRLW grows, scheduling may become more flexible to accommodate international fixtures and other events.
Increased Professionalism: Enhanced player contracts, facilities, and support systems will ensure the league remains competitive on a global scale.

Conclusion: The NRLW Season in 2025

The NRLW season in 2025 spans approximately 12 weeks, reflecting the league’s remarkable growth and rising popularity. From the regular season’s thrilling matchups to the high-stakes finals series, every week of the competition offers something special for fans. With the NRLW leading the charge for women’s sport in Australia, the longer season is a testament to the league’s success and bright future.

Call-to-Action: Are you excited about the NRLW season in 2025? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe to your favorite team’s updates. Let’s celebrate the incredible growth of women’s rugby league together!