The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs have officially presented their NRLW licence application to the National Rugby League (NRL), marking a significant step towards securing a place in the upcoming competition expansion.
While the NRL is yet to announce the approval timeline for new teams, the Bulldogs are resolutely prepared and eager to embrace the responsibilities and opportunities that come with an NRLW licence.
Over the past 12 to 18 months, the Club has made substantial investments in its female Academy programs, recruited top-tier staff and coaching positions, and organised a series of development initiatives to ensure they are NRLW-entry ready.
The bid emphasises the Club's rich history, steeped in community bonds, eight Premiership titles, and a commitment to unity through rugby league. The vision is clear: to elevate the women's game, provide aspiring young females with opportunities to participate, develop, excel, and compete on the national stage, all while fostering involvement in the game at all levels.
Bulldogs Chairman, John Khoury voiced the Club's dedication to driving opportunities for young, talented females in the area:
"Our Club's history is steeped in tradition and success, and we believe it is our duty to extend that legacy to the women's game. We are fully committed to nurturing our athletes, equipping them with the skills and mindset to compete at the highest level, and fostering an environment of excellence and growth."
CEO Aaron Warburton attended the NRL Headquarters today to personally delivered the Club's submission.
"The Bulldogs are proud to submit our application in pursuit of an NRLW entry," said Warburton.
"Our commitment to the advancement of women's Rugby League is unwavering and our application reflects our dedication to creating a sustainable and successful NRLW team."
Lauren Milner, Female Football Operations Coordinator, said the NRLW side would be the next natural progression for the Club who are already heavily invested in advancing the women's game and nurturing emerging, young talent:
"We are really building from the bottom up. We have strong junior league clubs through our women’s programs, our Pups Elite Program, and various age groups. The NRLW is something we are all striving towards here."
As a player in the Bulldogs system, teenager Olivia Vaalele dreams to be one of the very first girls to pull on an NRLW Bulldogs jersey and run out in front of a Bulldogs crowd.
"Just to see the little girls on the sideline, to impress my family and younger self, as well as any other little girl out there... to wear the logo with pride in front of the whole Bulldogs stadium or wherever I am, that would be crazy. I'd love to."
An NRLW licence would give aspiring young female footballers equal opportunity to be able to follow their dreams and become just like one of the stars that they love, follow and look up to.
While the legacy for women in the blue and white is just getting started, the submission marks a significant milestone in what promises to be a bright future for the Bulldogs Academy.
As the application awaits review, the Club will remain steadfast in their commitment to the growth and success of the women's game.
