LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Melbourne Storm will be throwing a ripper celebration this weekend for the NRL's Women in League round.
They'll be giving a fair dinkum recognition to all the sheilas who are helping to shape the game of rugby league down in Victoria.
The footy scene in Victoria has been going through a real growth spurt lately, with volunteers, administrators, players, coaches, mums, and grandmas all playing a big role in the game's success.
The numbers don't lie - there's been a 50% increase in female participation in the last year alone, with nearly 1500 women and girls lacing up their boots in 2024.
The Storm's Female Development program has been a game-changer this season, paving the way for a future NRLW team and giving young players a fair go at donning the purple jersey down the track.
It's all about providing a clear pathway for these talented ladies to shine on the big stage.
Before the Storm clash with the Dragons at AAMI Park, the first 30 players selected for the Female Development Program will be strutting their stuff on the field for a lap of honour.
It's a great chance to show their true blue dedication to the game.
With more opportunities opening up for females in rugby league, there's a real buzz around the sport at all levels.
It's about bloody time that these women are getting the recognition they deserve for their hard yakka in making the game better for everyone involved.