LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Tiana Penitani, the last player to sign on for the Sharks ahead of the 2023 season, has proven to be a significant addition to the squad.
As the Sharks' inaugural season in the NRLW competition, Penitani's experience and impressive resume made her the perfect fit for coach Tony Herman's team.
Her outstanding performance in her first season in Cronulla colors has earned her the title of Sharks Player of the Year.
Penitani beat out Annessa Biddle and Emma Tonegato to become the first Sharks captain.
Throughout the season, Penitani has led the team in run meters with a total of 1330.
With one game left in their season, she currently ranks sixth amongst all players across the 10 NRLW teams.
Penitani's consistently high work rate is evident in her average of 17 carries per game as an outside back.
Another standout player for the Sharks this season was Annessa Biddle, a strong running Kiwi center/winger.
Biddle's impressive debut season at the NRL level earned her the respect and recognition of her coaches, teammates, and many across the women's game.
She was awarded both the NRLW Players Player and the NRLW Rookie of the Year awards.