By Maddison Wright.
Canberra Raiders NRLW Coach Darrin Borthwick says he’s proud of the six debutantes named for round one and is confident they’ll rise to the occasion in front of a home crowd at GIO Stadium Canberra on Saturday.
The Green Machine will kick off their 2025 season with a triple-header in Canberra and Borthwick said the energy around the squad has been building steadily through a strong pre-season.
“As a club, it’s a privilege to put this jersey on,” Borthwick said.
“I know the six girls who are getting the opportunity to do that are all excited and will do the club proud. I can’t wait to see them run out on Saturday.”
Among those debuting is Lili Boyle, a NRLW development player who makes her way into the team due to injuries in the squad, who has impressed the coaching staff from the beginning of pre-season.
“Lil came to us with a good rap. She played quite well in the Harvey Norman Premiership last year, and she’s been really good in training,” Borthwick said.
“In the 3-4 tough weeks of conditioning they did, she was upfront with it and the effort she’s put in for training gets her this opportunity. I know she’s ready to go, the group’s really happy for her and we’ll be right behind her.”
Fellow debutante Georgia Thomas will also get her shot at the top level this weekend, something Borthwick says reflects the purpose of the NRLW pathway.
“It doesn’t matter where you are or what you’re doing, this is what the NRLW does,” he said. “It provides opportunities and she’s getting one on Saturday.”
Borthwick also confirmed Cheyelle Robins-Reti will take on the fullback role in round one - a challenge she embraced early in the pre-season.
“Putting Chey at fullback, I know she’s up for the challenge,” he said. “It’s one that she accepted nice and early and she’s done well.”
With a healthy squad and carefully managed pre-season, Borthwick said the club is taking a smart approach to team selection early in the season.
“Depth-wise, we’ve recruited quite well,” he said.
“We’re comfortable with not overdoing it round one with injuries and ensuring we’re resting girls if they need it, nice and early.”
Saturday’s home fixture is part of a blockbuster triple-header at GIO Stadium Canberra, something Borthwick believes is a massive occasion for both the club and its supporters.
“It’s huge. I know the girls really appreciate it,” he said.
“There are three games at GIO and anytime we get the opportunity to play before our men’s team, it’s terrific for the club and for the fans.”
With preparations nearly complete, Borthwick said the message to the squad remains simple: focus on what they can control.
“The clear message for us as a group is what we can control as a team and make sure we get out there and do our job,” he said.
“Anytime you get to this part of the season, it’s great getting out there for round one and having the opportunity to play at home. It’s exciting.”
