NSW Origin star Quincy Dodd is confident that the Sharks will field a strong team in this year’s NRLW after returning home to become the club’s inaugural signing.
Dodd, who began her career in Cronulla’s under 18s Tarsha Gale Cup team, turned down offers from rival clubs to sign a three-year deal with the Sharks and she predicted more big names would follow.
“I’ve played Harvey Norman [NSWRL Cup], NRLW, City-Country, State of Origin and All Stars, so I can’t wait to bring that experience to the Sharks,” Dodd said.
“There are other girls coming who haven’t been announced yet who are amazing leaders too, so it is very exciting.
“They are great players but also great people, which is even better. I can’t wait to get around them and start training with them.”
Dodd double
The 23-year-old hooker, who captained this year’s Indigenous All Stars team, has previously played in the NRLW for Sydney Roosters and St George Illawarra.
However, once the Sharks were admitted to the Women’s Telstra Premiership there was little doubt Dodd would play elsewhere this season.
“I had offers from other clubs but deep down I am a Sharkie and I love it here, so I can’t wait for the year ahead,” she said.
“I have always been a Sharkies fan, I live just around the corner from the ground and I played Tarsha Gale here so it is just like a dream come true for me.”
Cronulla officials and players were bitterly disappointed to be overlooked for a place in the NRLW when the competition was launched after the 2017 World Cup, but Dodd said the club was now well positioned.
She praised the pioneering work of former Jillaroos captain Ruan Sims, who will be an assistant to coach Tony Herman.
“I feel like we probably could have been the first team but obviously there is a lot of competition from all of the other clubs, and finally we are here so it is going to be an exciting time,” Dodd said.
“We have got to thank all the people before us, as well. People like Ruan Sims tried so much to get this club and us into the NRLW so a credit to them and we have got to thank them.
“When I was younger, I didn’t even know there was women’s rugby league and now we have 10 NRLW teams in the competition, so it is incredible, and it is just so inspiring to young girls.”
Dodd seals the victory for the Dragons
Herman said Dodd was a player who sets an example of what players was possible if they combine talent with hard work.
“Not only is Quincy someone who brings energy and enthusiasm, is a team first player who is popular amongst the playing group, she is a local girl who has come through our pathways and is an example to the young women in our system now and those who will be a part of it in the future,” Herman said.
“From development squads to Tarsha Gale, to NSW Origin, captaining the Indigenous team and now our inaugural NRLW team, it was important Quincy was our first announced signing to show others coming through what can be achieved."