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Your Guide to the NRLW and Supporting the Bulldogs Pack
Women’s rugby league in Australia has entered an exciting era, and at the heart of that transformation is the NRLW — the National Rugby League Women’s Premiership. With rising viewership, expanded teams, and increasing professionalism, the NRLW is now a major force in Australian sport. Among the fresh contenders entering this thrilling competition is a name synonymous with blue and white pride: the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs.
Whether you’re a long-time Bulldogs supporter or brand new to the sport, this guide will help you understand the NRLW, why it matters, and how you can get behind the Bulldogs Pack as they make their mark.
What is the NRLW?
The NRLW launched in 2018 with just four teams. Since then, it has expanded rapidly, reflecting the growing popularity and participation of women in rugby league across Australia. By 2025, the league features 12 teams, aligned closely with their NRL counterparts, providing elite female players the same pathways, resources, and national spotlight as their male peers.
The season typically runs from July to September, culminating in the Grand Final, which is played as part of NRL Grand Final Day. The competition includes regular rounds, semifinals, and a final, delivering intense footy action, skillful playmaking, and heart-on-sleeve toughness.
The Bulldogs Enter the Arena
The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs officially joined the NRLW in 2025, adding their name to the list of clubs with a proud rugby league legacy extending into the women’s game. The inclusion of the Bulldogs means more opportunities for female athletes in Western Sydney and beyond, as well as more games, rivalries, and moments for fans to enjoy.
Why Now?
The Bulldogs have long been a community-focused club with a deep supporter base and a rich tradition. The decision to field an NRLW team was driven by:
- A commitment to gender equality and inclusion in sport.
- The growing number of female junior players in Bulldogs heartland areas.
- A desire to expand the Bulldogs brand into new audiences while staying true to its grassroots origins.
Meet the Bulldogs Pack
In their inaugural NRLW season, the Bulldogs have assembled a strong, exciting squad that blends rising stars, Indigenous talent, and experienced NRLW campaigners. While every player brings something unique, here are a few key names to watch:
- Tiana Penitani (Captain) – A proven NRLW leader and attacking weapon, Penitani brings firepower and leadership to the backline.
- Kennedy Cherrington – One of the most dynamic forwards in the game, known for her power runs and uncompromising defence.
- Rueben Cherrington – A rising halfback with a sharp football brain and serious playmaking potential.
- Jade Etherden – A homegrown talent and proud Bulldog junior now living her NRLW dream.
The squad is backed by a strong support staff, including a head coach with a background in both men’s and women’s rugby league. The focus is not just on winning but building a sustainable women’s program that reflects the club’s values.
The Bulldogs Playing Style
The Bulldogs have embraced a tough, fast-paced, and team-first style of rugby league. Their pack prides itself on dominating the middle third, while the backs work in synch with sharp set plays and attacking flair. The team also places heavy emphasis on defensive resilience — staying in the grind and outworking the opposition.
In short: if you enjoy hard-hitting footy, smart tactics, and players with something to prove, this is a team to follow.
How You Can Support the Bulldogs Pack
Supporting the Bulldogs NRLW side means more than just wearing blue and white. It means backing the growth of women’s sport, showing up for your team, and helping shape the future of rugby league. Here’s how you can get involved:
1. Get to the Games
The Bulldogs will play both home and away fixtures, including games at family-friendly venues like Belmore Sports Ground. The atmosphere at NRLW matches is welcoming, community-oriented, and electric. Bring the family, wear your jersey, and cheer loud.
2. Become a Bulldogs NRLW Member
The club offers specific NRLW memberships, often at affordable prices, which help fund the women’s program. Members get exclusive content, merchandise discounts, and priority access to games.
3. Follow and Share Online
Follow the Bulldogs NRLW team across Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X (Twitter). Like, comment, and share their content to boost visibility. Highlighting women’s rugby league on social media sends a message: the demand is real, and the game deserves coverage.
4. Support the Players
Learn the names, stories, and positions of the players. Watch interviews, follow their journeys, and share their achievements. Most NRLW players are still building their profiles — your support helps grow their presence and opportunities.
5. Encourage the Next Generation
Whether it’s your daughter, sister, cousin, or neighbour — if a young girl is showing interest in rugby league, support her passion. Take her to games. Get her involved in junior clubs. Show her what’s possible by pointing to the Bulldogs NRLW team.
Why Supporting NRLW Matters
Backing the Bulldogs Pack is about more than loyalty to your team — it’s about building a better sporting future. NRLW:
- Inspires young girls to chase sporting dreams.
- Provides pathways for female athletes to compete professionally.
- Promotes inclusivity and diversity in Australian sport.
- Enriches rugby league, adding fresh voices, strategies, and stories.
Every ticket sold, every jersey worn, every cheer in the crowd helps push the game forward. And the Bulldogs are proud to be part of that movement.
Rivalries to Watch
The Bulldogs are expected to form fierce rivalries with several clubs, including:
- Parramatta Eels – A natural Western Sydney derby.
- St George Illawarra Dragons – A battle of tradition and territory.
- Sydney Roosters – One of the league’s powerhouse teams.
These matchups promise drama, intensity, and big moments. Mark your calendars.
Looking Ahead
The Bulldogs NRLW team is here — not just to participate, but to compete, inspire, and lead. The journey won’t be without challenges, but with the Pack behind them, this team has every chance to build a proud legacy.
So whether you’re a diehard Doggies fan or a newcomer looking for a team to back, now is the time. The stands are filling. The players are ready. The Pack is on the rise.
Back the blue. Back the white. Back the Bulldogs NRLW.
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