The National Rugby League’s general Manager of Women’s Elite Program, Tiffany Slater has been recognised for her work in shifting the sporting landscape in New South Wales, taking out the inaugural Her Sport Her Ways Champion award at a gala event in Sydney overnight.
Under Slater’s leadership in 2019, elite women are now being paid more to play rugby league and women’s rugby league matches were the most watched women’s sports programs in 2019.
There are also more women and girls are playing rugby league with the women's game growing 18.4% year on year.
“I feel privileged to be able to play a role in shaping the future of women’s rugby league and contributing to the growth of women’s sport and gender equality more broadly,” Ms Slater said.
“I am honoured to receive this award which represents the hard work of many people over a number of years that has brought women’s rugby league to where it is today.”
NRL CEO Todd Greenberg congratulated Tiffany on being recognised for her achievements and efforts to grow and showcase the women’s game at all levels.
“Tiffany has been the driving force behind the growth of the elite women’s game here at the NRL and across Australia,” Mr Greenberg said.
“Under Tiffany’s leadership the women’s game conquered new frontiers in 2019, including Holden Women’s Origin becoming the most watched women’s sport program in Australia and delivering standalone NRLW matches in both New Zealand and Australia for the first time.
“We’re immensely proud of Tiffany and her tireless work to foster greater opportunities for our female players and her advocacy for equal opportunities at all levels of the game.”
Acting Minister for Sport Geoff Lee said six winners were announced across four categories with Ms Slater receiving the highest accolade, the Her Sport Her Way Champion award.
“Tiffany has been the driving force behind the success of women’s rugby league and is a role model who exemplifies all the qualities of a true champion,” Acting Minister for Sport Geoff Lee said.
“Tiffany can be proud of the continued rapid growth of women’s elite rugby league in NSW and indeed across the country.”
Her Sport Her Way is the NSW Government's vision for the future of women in sport. It features 29 initiatives that aim to increase participation, fund female-friendly facilities, maximise investment and increase the number of women in leadership.