The Canberra Raiders are proud to confirm that the club has been granted a license to join the NRLW in 2023 as one of four expansion teams.
The Raiders will join the Cowboys, Sharks and Tigers in 2023, which will see the competition expanded from six to 10 teams.
It’s a huge win for the game of rugby league in the ACT and surrounding regions, with locally based female rugby league players now having a direct pathway to the game at the elite level.
Raiders CEO Don Furner said the inclusion of the Raiders in the NRLW was a very proud moment for the club and the Raiders were excited about joining the competition in 2023.
“The Raiders are very excited about joining the NRLW competition for the first time in 2023 and now that we’ve been accepted, we’re looking forward to building our squad and assembling our team for next season,” Furner said. “Having a team in the NRLW has been a huge focus for our club and now that we’ve been granted a licence, we look forward to providing a pathway for local female participants to play at the elite level.”
“We’re also extremely thankful to the ACT Government for their assistance and backing during the bid process and we look forward to bringing matches to Canberra for our members and fans next season.”
ACT Minister for Sport and Recreation Yvette Berry said:
“Women’s sport continues to grow in Canberra and now with an NRLW Raiders team, more younger women and girls can be inspired to continue to play league – or any sport – throughout their life. You don’t have to stop playing in high school, uni or when you start work.
“The ACT Government is absolutely committed to making sure there are more opportunities for women to continue to play sport and I can’t wait to be at the first game to see them play!”
