But first they are preparing for next year’s Harvey Norman Women’s Competition, NSWRL’s premier open-age competition for women.
Former NRL player, Wellbeing Manager and Club Ambassador, Luke Goodwin will lead the charge as coach, and the Bulldogs won’t do this half-heartedly.
With NRLW experienced players like Gayle Broughton, Tayla Preston, Australian Jillaroos Holli Wheeler and Kennedy Cherrington among those listed, the club is taking no chances when it comes to carving out future success.
Bulldogs executives have appointed Barry Ward to oversee the Women’s Program, who, alongside Adam Hartigan as GM of Pathways, will look to firm up the club’s position as a leader in pathways and development.
With a bid to enter the NRLW competition in 2024, the Bulldogs have got plenty of aces up their sleeves.
“Canterbury is focused on building the women’s game from the bottom up,” Ward said.
“That means the return of our Harvey Norman Women’s side in 2023, the ongoing development of our Tarsha Gale side, and the opportunity for female teams to have greater access to what they need to sustain success at an elite level.”
Among those named in the Harvey Norman squad, Kennedy Cherrington says she can’t wait to play with her sister [Rueben] and be among the group of girls brought together.
“There’s a really good mix of experience and future talent,” she said.
“I’m really excited to come to the Dogs. I’ve had some really good experiences already, seeing the club, facilities, and their bid for an NRLW side in ’24 or ’25.
“There’s that saying, you know, underdogs.
“I love underdogs and I think that suits really well with our team.”