LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
In less than four hours, 34 of rugby league's top female young talents will compete in the U19s Women's State of Origin match between the NSW Blues and QLD Maroons.
The Blues, who have historically dominated this fixture with only one loss to Queensland, are eager to secure another win after last year's resounding victory of 46-4 at Leichhardt Oval.
This year's squad features many familiar faces, but also highlights emerging players such as Logan Fletcher, Liesl Hopoate, Tyra Ekepati, and Tess McWilliams, marking a significant glimpse into the future of NRLW.
Despite the inclusion of these newcomers, the team will lean on seasoned players for leadership, particularly Kasey Reh, who has been named captain.
Reh, who was awarded Player of the Match in the previous year, has maintained her impressive form, earning recognition as the 2024 NRLW Rookie of the Year.
Recently, she has also trained with the Women's Origin squad, benefiting from the experience of players like Kirra Dibb, Tiana Penitani Gray, and Jesse Southwell.
As she prepares to represent her family and state, Reh expresses the importance of her role, emphasizing the personal significance of the upcoming match.