The Jillaroos Journey: Thompson's battle to build support structure

During a challenging period, Australian players often had to cover their own expenses, leading some to sell their cars just to manage travel costs, while others chose to stay in hostels to save money. Despite these hardships, Thompson noted that their victory was an early indication of the team's potential for future success.

Tracey Thompson could very well be the finest rugby league player you've never heard of. Yet, whenever you tune in to watch a game, you likely witness her influence on the sport.

Thompson's on-field prowess was unparalleled in the early 2000s. As a formidable centre and winger, the former Jillaroos star has drawn comparisons to modern-day players like Selwyn Cobbo, Latrell Mitchell, and Isabelle Kelly.

For many current and former athletes, she epitomizes the archetype of an outside back.

Though Thompson's talent and innate skills were extraordinary, her tenure with the Jillaroos was brief, spanning only five years from 1999 to 2004.

NRL Hall of Famer and former teammate Tahnee Norris shares this sentiment.

When she first stepped onto the field, Thompson was a reserved teenager who found it tough to be away from her family, struggling particularly with the rigors of travel.