LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Megan Pakulis, the female winner of the inaugural Vegas Combine in 2024, has signed with the Gold Coast Titans, aiming to inspire North American players to pursue opportunities in the NRLW.
Pakulis, a Canadian forward, previously played for York Valkyrie in England, helping the team secure the Women's Super League premiership.
Despite her commitment to York and coach Lindsay Anfield, she had a chance to tour NRLW clubs while participating in the 2024 National Championships in Australia.
Following the news that Titans stars Shannon Mato and Evania Isa'ako (nee Pelite) would miss the upcoming season due to pregnancy, along with injured forward Rilee Jorgensen, Titans coach Karyn Murphy offered Pakulis an opportunity to join the team.
She has now begun pre-season training on the Gold Coast, and is also set to lead Canada in the World Series against Fiji, Ireland, and Nigeria in Toronto this October, competing for a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
Pakulis expressed her excitement about the opportunity, stating, "The Combine showed it is possible," referring to the potential for players from North America to succeed in the NRLW.