In a historic move for Queensland Rugby League, the Harvey Norman Queensland Maroons have appointed co-captains, naming veteran playmaker Ali Brigginshaw and dynamic fullback Tamika Upton to jointly lead the team into Game I of the 2025 Women’s State of Origin series.
The match is set to take place at Suncorp Stadium on Thursday, May 1, marking the beginning of the series and coinciding with the start of Magic Round.
Head coach, Tahnee Norris spoke on her decision, stating: "We consulted the entire team in making this decision and, as a group, recognised that both Tamika and Ali bring unique leadership strengths.
"These are the two players who really stood up during our selection camps and consistently proved their qualities, both on and off the field.
"Rather than appointing a traditional captain and vice-captain as we've done in the past, it made sense to listen to the team and give both Ali and Tamika the opportunity to lead in the areas where they excel."
Ali Brigginshaw, a stalwart of Queensland rugby league, brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the role. Having captained the Maroons in previous successful campaigns, Brigginshaw's strategic acumen and on-field presence have been pivotal to Queensland's successes.
Brigginshaw said: “It’s always a huge honour to lead the Maroons — a role I never take for granted.
“To share that responsibility with a natural leader like Tamika is something I know will truly benefit the team.
We compliment each other really well — constantly learning, challenging one another, and pushing to make this already great team even stronger.
Ali Brigginshaw Co-Captain, Harvey Norman Queensland Maroons
Joining her in leadership is Tamika Upton, whose appointment as co-captain reflects her rising prominence in the sport. Upton's exceptional performances have not gone unnoticed; she was crowned the NRLW Dally M winner in 2023, highlighting her significant impact on the field.
Upton added: “Ali understands what it takes to be a great captain, and it’s an incredible opportunity to now lead this team alongside her.
Leading the Maroons carries high expectations, and I’m excited to embrace that challenge head-on.
Tamika Upton Co-Captain, Harvey Norman Queensland Maroons
“We’ve got an exceptionally talented group of girls in this squad, and Ali and I feel privileged to help bring out their very best.”
The co-captaincy marks a new chapter for the Queensland Maroons, symbolising a strategic evolution in team leadership. With Brigginshaw's seasoned guidance and Upton's dynamic influence, the Maroons are poised to showcase their strength and unity on the Origin stage.
As the countdown to Game I continues, fans eagerly anticipate the impact of this leadership duo, confident that Brigginshaw and Upton will steer Queensland towards another memorable Origin campaign.
