11/05/2026
Celebrating the Future of Women in Rugby League 🏉✨
The numbers tell the story.
In 2026, Illawarra Rugby League recorded 1,581 registered female participants, an increase of 4.2 per cent on last year, with women and girls now making up 38 per cent of the region’s overall registered player base of more than 4,100 participants.
Following a wonderful Mother’s Day weekend, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the incredible growth of women’s and girls' rugby league in our region.
The Illawarra Rugby League recently shared an inspiring look at how women are making their mark on the game—not just as supporters, but as the heartbeat of the sport. From young girls lacing up their boots for the first time to the trailblazing coaches and officials leading the way, the landscape is shifting.
As Courtney Crawford, head coach of the Steelers’ Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership team, rightly noted: women in league are no longer "just mums in the canteen"—they are the players, leaders, and role models defining the next generation.
At Alltech, we are incredibly proud to play a part in this journey. Our partnership with the league (you might have spotted the Alltech logo on the goal post pads!) is more than just a sponsorship; it’s a commitment to supporting the pathways that allow every player to thrive.
As we celebrate all the mums and female mentors who support our local athletes, we also celebrate the grit, talent, and passion of the women on the field. The future of rugby league is bright.
Read the full story from the Illawarra Rugby Club here: https://illawarrarugbyleague.com.au/illawarra-rugby-league/boots-and-all-women-and-girls-make-their-mark-on-rugby-league/