LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken

'It shows that I belong': Sauaso named RLPA Rookie of the Year

Shalom Sauaso, the young talent from the Broncos, has been honored as the Rugby League Players Association (RLPA) 2025 Rookie of the Year, an accolade determined by votes from NRLW players.

At just 18 years old, Sauaso has made a remarkable impression in her inaugural season, totaling 74 tackle breaks, scoring four tries, and averaging 140 run meters and 53 post-contact meters across only eight games.

She joined the Broncos in 2024 after an outstanding Super W rugby union season with the Queensland Reds, which earned her a spot on the Australian Wallaroos team.

Scouted by Broncos co-captain Ali Brigginshaw, Sauaso signed her first NRLW development contract on her 17th birthday. She was promoted to a top 24 contract at the end of the previous year and has rapidly become a reliable member of the NRLW squad.

Expressing her feelings, she noted that she felt honored to receive this award.