Co-captain Kezie Apps of the Wests Tigers NRLW and teammate Leianne Tufuga have extended their contracts to play in the Queensland Rugby League BMD tournament.
This year, the Western Clydesdales are playing in their first-ever BMD Premiership season, and both the Jillaroo and the New Zealand international have joined the team.
Apps has been the captain of both Australia and New South Wales during her career and is regarded as one of the most accomplished players in women’s rugby league. Since making her international debut in 2014, the 2019 Dally M Medalist has played in 26 NRLW games (for the Dragons and Tigers) and 12 Test matches for Australia.
Conversely, Leianne Tufuga played three Tests on her international debut for the Kiwi Ferns of New Zealand last year. Tufuga is an explosive and talented winger who has scored nine tries for the Sydney Roosters and Wests Tigers NRLW in 21 NRLW appearances.
They will join forces with NRLW sensation Shenae Ciesiolka and three-time NRLW premiership champion and Brisbane Broncos NRLW halfback Ali Brigginshaw upon their arrival to the Clydesdales.
According to The Chronicle, the CEO of the Western Clydesdales stated, “I think it is a very exciting prospect for us; it has been a good build-up for our women’s program and to get players of that calibre shows as a club we are on the right track.”
They will offer some fantastic experience and insight into what it’s like to play at the highest level when paired with our local females. Even though Leianne is still young, her three years of NRLW experience demonstrate the quick rise to prominence in the women’s game. “Kezie is a strong leader who will strengthen our leadership group and has years of experience at all levels.”
