Who won the NRLW?

4 min.

The National Rugby League Women’s Premiership (NRLW) has become one of the most thrilling and competitive leagues in rugby league. Each season, fans eagerly anticipate the crowning of the NRLW champions, who showcase exceptional skill, teamwork, and determination. If you’re wondering, who won the NRLW?, this article provides a detailed answer while celebrating the champions and their incredible journey.

2023 NRLW Champions: Newcastle Knights

The Newcastle Knights claimed victory in the 2023 NRLW season, cementing their place as one of the league’s top teams. The Knights showcased a combination of resilience, strategy, and talent to secure the premiership title in a fiercely contested competition.

Grand Final Recap

Matchup: Newcastle Knights vs. Gold Coast Titans
Score: Knights 24 – Titans 18
Date: Sunday, October 1, 2023
Venue: Accor Stadium, Sydney

The Knights emerged victorious after a thrilling showdown, with their star players delivering standout performances under immense pressure.

Key Performers:

Tamika Upton: Named Player of the Match for her decisive plays and leadership.
Millie Boyle: A dominant force in defense, ensuring the Titans struggled to gain momentum.
Jesse Southwell: A rising star whose agility and playmaking were crucial to the Knights’ success.

For more details on the 2023 NRLW Grand Final, visit the NRL Official Website.

A History of NRLW Champions

The NRLW began in 2018 with just four teams, and its growth has been remarkable. Let’s take a look at past champions and how the league has evolved:

NRLW Champions by Year

2018: Brisbane Broncos
- The Broncos dominated the inaugural season, defeating the Sydney Roosters in the Grand Final (34–12).
2019: Brisbane Broncos
- The Broncos defended their title, showcasing their dominance with another decisive win over the Dragons (30–6).
2020: Brisbane Broncos
- A historic three-peat, defeating the Roosters in a tight contest (20–10).
2021: Sydney Roosters
- The Roosters broke the Broncos’ streak, claiming their first NRLW title with a thrilling victory over the Dragons (16–4).
2022: Newcastle Knights
- The Knights clinched their maiden title with a dominant win against the Parramatta Eels (32–12).
2023: Newcastle Knights
- Back-to-back champions, defeating the Titans in a closely fought match (24–18).

Most Successful Team

The Brisbane Broncos hold the record for the most NRLW premiership titles, with three consecutive wins from 2018 to 2020.

What Makes the NRLW Grand Final Special?

The NRLW Grand Final is not just another game; it’s the culmination of months of hard work, dedication, and passion. Here’s why it’s such a significant event:

1. Elite Talent on Display

The Grand Final brings together the league’s best players, showcasing world-class skill, strategy, and athleticism.

2. Intense Rivalries

Every NRLW Grand Final has featured fierce rivalries, with teams pushing each other to their limits.

3. Growth of Women’s Rugby League

The Grand Final highlights the rapid development of women’s rugby league, inspiring the next generation of players and fans.

How the Newcastle Knights Won the 2023 NRLW Title

The Knights’ journey to the 2023 premiership was a testament to their resilience and teamwork. Let’s break down their season:

Regular Season Performance

Finished in the top two, securing their spot in the finals.
Boasted one of the best defensive records in the league.

Key Players

Tamika Upton: Her ability to read the game and deliver clutch performances was pivotal.
Millie Boyle: A cornerstone of the Knights’ defensive strategy.
Jesse Southwell: The young playmaker added creativity and flair to the Knights’ attack.

Grand Final Triumph

Overcame a spirited Titans side with tactical brilliance and clutch performances in key moments.
The Knights’ defense held strong in the final minutes, sealing their back-to-back titles.

How to Watch the NRLW Grand Final

If you missed the 2023 NRLW Grand Final or want to catch future matches, here’s how to tune in:

Live Broadcast

Nine Network: The official free-to-air broadcaster of the NRLW Grand Final.
Foxtel and Kayo Sports: Offer live coverage and replays.

Streaming

9Now: Stream the game live or watch replays for free.
WatchNRL: Available for international viewers.

For upcoming matches, visit the NRLW Schedule Page.

The Future of the NRLW

The success of teams like the Newcastle Knights and the growing fan engagement signal a bright future for the NRLW.

Planned Expansion

The league will expand to 12 teams by 2025, creating more opportunities for players and fans.
Clubs like the Canterbury Bulldogs and New Zealand Warriors are strong contenders for inclusion.

Increased Investment

Higher salary caps and improved facilities ensure the league continues to grow professionally.

Global Recognition

The NRLW’s rise has attracted international attention, with players from New Zealand, England, and the Pacific Islands joining the competition.

How Fans Can Support the NRLW

Your support is vital to the growth of the NRLW. Here’s how you can get involved:

Attend Games: Cheer for your favorite team at home games or the Grand Final.
Watch and Share: Tune into broadcasts and share highlights on social media.
Engage with Players: Follow NRLW stars on Instagram and Twitter to show your support.

For tickets and updates, visit the NRL Tickets Page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who won the 2023 NRLW Grand Final?
A: The Newcastle Knights defeated the Gold Coast Titans 24–18 to win the 2023 NRLW Grand Final.

Q: How many teams are in the NRLW?
A: As of 2023, the NRLW features 10 teams, with plans to expand to 12 teams by 2025.

Q: Where can I watch NRLW games?
A: Games are broadcast on the Nine Network, streamed on 9Now, and available on Foxtel and Kayo Sports.

Conclusion: Celebrating the NRLW Champions

The Newcastle Knights have proven themselves as champions of the NRLW, with their back-to-back titles in 2022 and 2023 showcasing their dominance and determination. As the league grows, fans can look forward to more thrilling matches, emerging stars, and unforgettable moments.

If you’re passionate about rugby league, now is the time to dive into the NRLW and support the incredible athletes shaping the future of the sport. Share this article with friends and celebrate the champions of the NRLW!