Female club registrations grew by 24% in 2018, Queensland Rugby League Managing Director Robert Moore confirmed today.
While there are now more women and girls playing the game than ever before, Moore said there was still additional targets to hit.
"Together with the game's stakeholders, we'll continue to work hard to create and drive sustainable pathways like the Women's National Championships, State of Origin and NRL Premiership," Moore said.
"All three have been brilliant additions to the rugby league calendar this year."
Overall, the combined male and female participation numbers show that rugby league is holding its own in a competitive sporting and social landscape.
This year, 61, 963 male and female players were registered to play club rugby league, an increase of close to 2 per cent on the 2017 figures.
In a concerted effort to attract and retain players and foster personal development / transition, the game's stakeholders have invested heavily in a whole-of-game strategic project.
"I'm pleased to share that in 2019 we will enter a testing phase following the creation of a Player Development Framework.
"Pleasingly, the South East Queensland Region has agreed to trial many of the project's recommendations in 2019."
These include the Tacklesafe competition and program as well as the 18-month registration window.
More details will be provided in due course.
