First-Ever Women’s Universities Rugby League Match to Take Place on 18 May

Sophie Curtain Leads NSW Universities Women’s Team in Debut Clash

West's Tigers NRLW utility Sophie Curtain is set to participate in the inaugural NSW Universities Women’s team, marking a milestone in women's university rugby league. The team will face Queensland Universities at North Sydney Oval on 18 May, in what will be the first-ever women's university match. Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics (Honours) at the University of Wollongong, Curtain brings extensive experience to the squad. With 15 NRLW appearances, multiple Harvey Norman NSW Women’s Premiership seasons, and NSW Under 18s representation in 2019, she is expected to play a leadership role on the field. She expressed pride in representing NSW once again and is eager to contribute to the team’s success while laying the foundation for future campaigns.

Beyond the match itself, Curtain is committed to strengthening her teammates’ skills and game awareness while fostering pride in representing NSW. The NSW Universities team also draws inspiration from the recent victory of the Westpac NSW Blues Women, who triumphed over Queensland 32–12 in Game One of the 2025 Origin series at Suncorp Stadium. Ahead of Game Two of the Origin series on 15 May, Curtain highlighted the NSW Universities team's enthusiastic support for the Westpac NSW Blues Women. She shared that she had sent a message of encouragement during Game One as NSW secured the lead and expressed hope that her team could harness that momentum in training and competition. To further boost morale, the squad plans to watch the second Origin game together in camp.

Curtain also reflected on her connection with NSW Universities Women’s head coach Scott Clark, whom she worked with previously during his tenure at the Wests Tigers in the Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership. She described him as a knowledgeable and approachable leader who maintains strong rapport with players, bringing a sense of familiarity to the team environment.

Despite balancing university studies, preparations with the Illawarra Steelers, and running a sports nutrition business, Curtain remains focused on the upcoming fixture. Acknowledging Queensland’s formidable strength, she emphasised the need for NSW to maintain discipline, execute effective plays, and ensure strong set completions. Following the NSW vs Queensland Universities clash, an Australian Universities team will be selected, adding further significance to the event. NSW has named a 20-player squad for the fixture, scheduled to kick off at 11 am on Sunday, 18 May at North Sydney Oval, with the final 18-player lineup to be confirmed on game day.

The squad includes representatives from various institutions across New South Wales and the ACT, showcasing a diverse range of talent. Players selected for the match include Angelina Ballas, Ellie Barnett, Georgia Clements, Ella Fielding, Monique McGlynn, and Matilda Vella from the Australian Catholic University; Aaliyah Boland and Paige Knapp from the University of Western Sydney; Sophie Curtain, Bianca Jones, Lexis Kaleti, and Makayla McFadyen from the University of Wollongong; Gabrielle Davis and Lola Fletcher from the University of Canberra; Afi Fauese from the Australian College of Physical Education; Josie Lenaz from the University of Sydney; and Kirby Maslin, Terri-lee Van Wyk, and Ebony Woodcock from the University of Newcastle. With a strong lineup, experienced leadership, and a determined mindset, the NSW Universities Women’s team is prepared to make history in this landmark match.

Editor’s Note:

The inaugural NSW Universities Women’s team represents a significant step forward for women’s university rugby league, creating opportunities for student-athletes to compete at a high level while balancing academic commitments. The upcoming match against Queensland Universities at North Sydney Oval on 18 May marks a historic occasion, with players eager to establish a lasting foundation for future competitions. Leading the team is experienced utility Sophie Curtain, whose extensive background in NRLW and university studies exemplifies the dedication required to excel both on and off the field. The squad also draws inspiration from the recent success of the Westpac NSW Blues Women, fostering strong team morale ahead of this landmark fixture.

Skoobuzz underlines that with contributions from universities across New South Wales and the ACT, the NSW Universities team showcases the depth of talent within the region. This match highlights the growth of women’s rugby league and reinforces the importance of collaboration, skill development, and sportsmanship in shaping the future of the game.