The women behind the game at Queensland Rugby League

This week, Queensland Rugby League proudly celebrates Harvey Norman Women in League Round, recognising the incredible women who make a lasting impact on our game every day.

When we think of Women in League Round, our minds often turn to the players, coaches, referees and volunteers who contribute so much to rugby league across Queensland. Their dedication and passion are essential to the success of our game.

However, behind the scenes, there are also many talented and committed women working to support, grow and strengthen rugby league at every level.

To mark this year's Women in League Round, we spoke with four women from across Queensland Rugby League about their experiences working in the game, the opportunities and challenges they have encountered, and what rugby league means to them. Here's what they had to say.

Nicole Thomas, QRL State Programs Manager

What's a moment in your rugby league career that you're particularly proud of?

It's hard to narrow it down to one moment, but I'm incredibly proud of helping build programs that genuinely make rugby league safer and more supportive for everyone.

Seeing initiatives like Support Squad, Clear Heads, Play Your Part and our child safeguarding work come to life and then hearing from volunteers, parents and clubs that they've made a real difference, is what I'm most proud of. Knowing that something we've created has helped someone feel supported, protected or more confident reminds me why this work matters.

Who is a woman who has influenced or inspired you, and why?

I've been fortunate to work alongside many talented women throughout my career. Their resilience, leadership, and willingness to support others have shown me the importance of lifting people up and creating opportunities for the next generation. But if I'm allowed to choose a fictional character too, I'd have to say Elle Woods.

It might sound a little unexpected, but I love that Elle challenges the idea that you have to fit a certain mould to be taken seriously. She proves you can be kind, compassionate, optimistic and unapologetically yourself while also being intelligent, capable and driven. She doesn't change who she is to succeed, she succeeds because she backs herself, works incredibly hard and refuses to let other people's assumptions define her.

As a woman working in a traditionally male-dominated environments, that's a message that has always resonated with me.

Amy ‘Bocky’ Bock, QRL Pathways Coach

What would you say to a young woman who wants a career in sport but doesn't know where to start?

There really is a role for everyone in rugby league - playing, coaching, medical and a multitude of other off field roles. You'll likely start at as a volunteer but do your time, build your network, take opportunities and you won't regret it. It won't always be easy, you may be challenged in what is often a male dominated space but know your worth, back yourself and enjoy the ride. 

What's your favourite rugby league memory?

Watching State of Origin with friends and family growing up, always great nights with great people watching great games of footy. To be involved with the QRL now helping develop the next wave of origin stars and now having the women on the same stage is a pinch me moment.

Jessica Rheinberger, QRL Senior Commercial Manager

Who is a woman who has influenced or inspired you, and why?

My Mum. Family is so special and having my own kids now I see how much work, love, time, patience and compassion is needed to give them a good life. I got all that and more from my Mum. 

What do you love most about working in rugby league?

I grew up watching rugby league with my dad and fell in love with it, so I love seeing that reflected in the fans that we interact with. I love working with all the people here at the QRL - everyone works their absolute hardest to deliver this game in so many the different ways.

Rochelle Tamarua, QRL Officiating Coordinator

What's a moment in your rugby league career that you're particularly proud of?

One of the moments I'm most proud of is progressing from being involved in officiating on the field as a referee to now supporting match officials across Queensland as an Officiating Coordinator. Having the opportunity to contribute to the development, support and growth of match officials at community levels of the game has been incredibly rewarding.

What would you say to a young woman who wants a career in sport but doesn't know where to start?

Don't be afraid to give things a go. Some of the best opportunities come from being uncomfortable and being challenged out of your comfort zone. Whether it's refereeing, coaching or administration, every experience helps build your knowledge, confidence and network.