Jillaroos hooker Quincy Dodd has urged young players to “dream big” as she prepares for the inaugural NRLW Magic Round with the Sharks.
Having played the game at the highest levels, representing Australia, NSW and her Indigenous culture, Dodd’s pride in the evolution of the women’s game is clear.
“It’s so exciting, our first Magic Round ever for the women’s NRLW,” Dodd said. “We’ve never actually had anything like this before, and to see that all 12 teams are going to be in Newcastle is amazing.
“Newcastle always put on a massive show and I’m excited to take on the Broncos.”
The heavyweight clash closes Saturday’s triple-header, which starts with the Titans taking on the Bulldogs before Wests Tigers tackle the Roosters.
Broncos v Sharks: Round 5
The Cowboys and Warriors open Sunday’s action followed by the Knights-Raiders clash and the Eels facing the Dragons in the final game of Magic Round.
Dodd began her rugby league journey in the Sutherland Shire and returned to Cronulla as the Sharks’ inaugural signing after stints with the Roosters and Dragons, so the significance of Magic Round isn't lost.
“This is where I actually got signed for my first one,” she said. “To finally get my first ever contract for the Cronulla Sharks meant so much. I’m a Sharks junior and I live in the Shire. It’s home for me.
“I grew up playing every other sport and I didn’t have the chance to play rugby league. But when I saw there was an opportunity for me to play, I took it with both hands and I haven’t stopped playing since.
“So, to now see that we’re on the big stage, there is 12 teams in the NRLW, there’s a magic round, an Indigenous round, all these rounds.
“I am just so proud of every individual and the historic people, the strong women before us that have actually made it possible for us too.”
With the NRLW expanding to 12 teams this year and female pathways booming, Dodd’s message to the next generation of players is clear.
“Take it with two hands if you ever do get the opportunity to play, but also just dream big,” Dodd said.
“I was a little girl once and I didn’t know what I wanted, but once I took that first step out onto the field, it’s what I wanted. Just take a chance and dream big.”
Sharks captain Tiana Penitani Gray, a strong voice for the women’s game, reflected on the historic context.
“When you look back to 2017, the inception of the women’s game didn’t even exist. We didn’t even have a competition called the NRLW yet. Fast-forward to now, 2025, to be able to say that we have our own magic round is something really special.” Penitani Gray said.
The Sharks head to Magic Round in good form after a statement win against Wests Tigers last Sunday night that was marred by injuries to both teams.
For Dodd, the win was not just about the two points, but about resilience and pride in the jersey.
“We knew that the Tigers were going to be a pretty strong competitive team. We’ve obviously come out a bit slow at the start of the season, but we are building each week, and I feel like we’re slowly beginning to play some Sharks footy,” Dodd said.
“It is always quite upsetting when you do see your friends and your sisters go down, for both teams as well, but I feel like that is when you just dig a bit deeper and do everything you can to get those two points for your team."
