Toowoomba Qld - The Western Clydesdales RLFC Ltd is thrilled to announce the signing of four outstanding rugby league players for their inaugural BMD Premiership Open Women's side in 2024. These remarkable athletes bring a wealth of BMD Premiership, NRLW and representative experience and exceptional talent to the Clydesdales, promising an exciting season ahead for the team and their supporters.
The four (4) star signings include:
Ali Brigginshaw
Ali is currently the most experienced player in Women's Rugby League - the experience, excitement and professionalism that Ali will bring to our BMD side, Club and wider South-West community will be invaluable and add significant impact on Female athletes throughout the region.
We are excited to have Ali bring her natural born competitiveness and leadership skills to the club. Ali will play a pivotal role in establishing a strong foundation for our BMD side now and into the future.
- Current Captain of the Australian Jillaroos, QLD Maroons & Brisbane Broncos
- Has played the most NRLW games in history (33 games) (NRLW Grand final winner 2018, 2019 and 2020)
- 11 S.O.O matches for QLD
- 20+ test matches for Australia (World Cup winner 2013, 2017 and 2022)
- 6 Women's All Stars matches
- 4 matches for Australia 9's
- Dally M Medal winner - 2020
Shenae Ciesiolka
A local Toowoomba athlete who first played Rugby League as a junior for the Oakey Bears. Shenae embodies the local spirit in her return to represent the South-West region.
Shenae's career to date proves that the talent within the region can shine on the biggest stage and we can't wait to see her run out in the Clydesdales jersey.
Shenae possesses game breaking ability and genuine speed that will be sure to light up Clive Berghofer Stadium.
- Australia Rugby 7s - 5 matches
- 24 matches for the Brisbane Broncos NRLW side (including a 2020 NRLW Premiership)
- 5 S.O.O matches for the QLD Maroons
- 3 matches for the Australian Jillaroos (includes winning the 2022 Women’s Rugby League World Cup)
Tara Reinke
The Western Clydesdales have secured the signature of local Rugby League (Gatton Hawks) product - Tara Reinke for our inaugural season. Tara debuted for the Canberra Raiders this NRLW season and cemented herself as a regular NRLW player. We are excited to see Tara bring a work ethic that others can follow.
- 7 matches for the Canberra Raiders NRLW team in 2023
- 14 matches for the Brisbane Tigers in the BMD Premiership
- Local Gatton Hawks player
Jessikah Reeves
The Western Clydesdales are excited to have forward leader - Jessikah Reeves on deck for our inaugural season. Jessikah has established herself as an NRLW and International player and we look forward to having her experience and aggression amongst our forward pack.
- 5 matches for the NRLW North Queensland Cowboys in 2023
- 4 matches for the PNG Orchids (including the 2022 Rugby League World Cup)
- Queensland Rugby League U18 Representative - 2019
These signings signify the Western Clydesdales commitment to building a competitive and diverse squad for the inaugural BMD Premiership Open Women's competition in 2024. The team is poised to make a significant impact in the league with these five exceptional players, each bringing their unique skills and experience to the table.
Head Coach Mitchell Sargent expressed his excitement about the signings, stating, "We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Ali, Shenae, Tara and Jessikah to the Clydesdales family. Their NRLW experience and outstanding abilities will undoubtedly raise the level of competition and help us achieve our goals in the BMD Premiership. We can't wait to see them in action on the field."
The Clydesdales' supporters and the broader rugby league community eagerly await the 2024 season and the opportunity to witness these superstars in action. The Clydesdales remain dedicated to fostering the growth of women's rugby league and providing a platform for female athletes to excel in the sport.