Queensland’s next generation of female rugby league stars is ready to make its mark at the Magic Round Rising Talent Invitational, a showcase of elite emerging talent from across the country.
While the final team list has seen a few late changes, with three Queensland players withdrawing after earning NRLW contracts for the current or upcoming season, the updated squad represents some of the best young talent the state has to offer.
Players heading to the Invitational were selected through three distinct pathways: the QLD Pathways program, the First Nations Gems initiative, and a handful of wildcard selections.
QLD Pathways Selections
Drawn from this year’s BMD Premiership competition and aged between 20–26, these athletes have impressed at the state level and earned their place on merit:
Athena Vili – Ipswich Jets
Indee Brown – Wynnum Manly Seagulls
Malaela Su’a – Brisbane Tigers
Ruby Fifita – Tweed Seagulls
Sienna Laing – Burleigh Bears
Tahlia Marshall – Brisbane Tigers
Tarleah Fisher-Pearson – Ipswich Jets
Taylor Fenton – Western Clydesdales
Tylah Phillips – CQ Capras
Zoe Cook – Western Clydesdales
First Nations Gems
The following players were selected through the Indigenous Gems program, a talent development initiative led by Jess Skinner and the NRL:
Koolee Harbour – Wynnum Manly Seagulls
Sareeka Mooka – Northern Pride
Tahni Evenis – Mackay Cutters
Wildcard Picks
These wildcard entries are proudly Queensland-based and ready to seize the opportunity:
Larissa Crummer – Sunshine Coast Falcons
Libby Surha – Mackay Cutters
Pypah Ferguson – Western Clydesdales
Kaylani Tavita – Souths Logan Magpies
Strong Leadership On and Off the Field
Backing the squad will be Queensland coaching representatives Maia Tua-Davidson and Amy Bock, who will provide support and guidance throughout the tournament.
With a blend of BMD standouts, emerging First Nations talent, and a few bolters who’ve earned their shot, this group is set to represent Queensland with pride.
The Magic Round Rising Talent Invitational continues to be a key stepping stone for future NRLW stars and Queensland’s contributions are as exciting as ever.
