The Penrith Panthers have officially unveiled their inaugural NRLW squad, marking a historic moment for the club and the wider rugby league community. After years of growth, planning, and anticipation, the Panthers are finally ready to compete in the Women’s Premiership, assembling a squad that blends experience, raw talent, and a shared passion for representing Western Sydney at the highest level.
This squad announcement signals the Panthers’ intent to be more than just participants in the league—they are here to contend. Built with a strategic mix of seasoned NRLW campaigners, promising local juniors, and emerging stars from across Australia and the Pacific Islands, the roster embodies the Panthers’ commitment to long-term success in the women’s game. The club’s renowned development system has been pivotal in shaping some of the game’s elite men’s players, and it now turns its focus to nurturing the next generation of female stars.
At the helm of the Panthers’ inaugural NRLW journey is a strong leadership group, spearheaded by captain Simaima Taufa. A veteran of the women’s game and a role model on and off the field, Taufa brings World Cup experience, Origin pedigree, and unmatched toughness in the middle. Her leadership will be vital in guiding a relatively new group through the rigors of a debut campaign. Her presence is a massive coup for the Panthers, setting a tone of professionalism and competitive fire from day one.
Supporting her in the leadership group are other key figures such as Shontelle Stowers and Jakiya Whitfeld, who bring both experience and game-breaking ability. Stowers, a versatile backline player, brings a wealth of international experience and rugby union crossover talent. Whitfeld, a rising speedster, is among the most exciting young outside backs in the game. With her ability to turn defense into offense in a flash, she’ll be a cornerstone of Penrith’s backline structure.
In the halves, the Panthers boast a dynamic pairing that combines flair with game management. Rising star Ash Quinlan will partner with the skillful and experienced Sadee Subritzky, a pairing that promises to ignite Penrith’s attack. Quinlan, known for her slick passing and vision, complements Subritzky’s strong kicking game and calm under pressure. Together, they’ll be tasked with guiding the team around the park, controlling tempo, and unlocking opposing defenses.
In the forwards, the Panthers have assembled a brutal and mobile pack, with players like Sarah Togatuki and Kerehitina Matua expected to lay the foundation. Togatuki is a wrecking ball with the ability to bend defensive lines at will, while Matua’s work rate and tireless tackling bring balance to the middle third. Their go-forward will be essential to building momentum and creating opportunities for the backs to shine.
One of the most exciting aspects of the Panthers’ squad is its strong representation of local talent. The club has made a deliberate effort to provide pathways for young women from the Penrith region, and the results are already bearing fruit. Players like Kyla Mafoa, Aaliyah Fangaloka, and Alanna Watego have all progressed through the Panthers’ junior development system and now find themselves on the cusp of NRLW stardom. For many, pulling on the Penrith jersey will be the fulfillment of a lifelong dream.
There’s also a strong Pacific Island influence throughout the squad, with players bringing not only physicality and flair but also deep cultural pride. The Panthers have long been a club deeply connected to Pacific communities, and this identity will carry through to the women’s team. The sense of family, community, and faith that often underscores Pacific Islander culture will be evident in the team’s values, celebrations, and off-field connection.
Another key signing that has generated plenty of buzz is Jess Gentle, a powerful center known for her physical style and ability to break the line. Her inclusion adds punch to the Panthers’ edge attack, giving them a genuine strike option who can create havoc with ball in hand. She will likely partner with winger Destiny Mino-Sinapati, whose finishing ability and pace make her a constant threat out wide.
The Panthers have also recruited smartly from rival clubs and state competitions. They’ve brought in a blend of players who know what it takes to succeed at the top level, as well as hungry athletes eager to prove themselves. Coach Ruan Sims, a pioneer of women’s rugby league and one of the game’s most respected voices, has praised the character and commitment of the players. Sims, who has worn many hats in rugby league as a player, commentator, and mentor, is now stepping into her most ambitious role yet as a head coach. Her passion for the women’s game and her deep understanding of what it takes to compete at the top will be pivotal in shaping the Panthers’ culture.
The inaugural NRLW campaign won’t be without challenges. As a new squad, cohesion will take time, and every team in the competition boasts seasoned players with years of chemistry behind them. But the Panthers are embracing the underdog tag, and early reports from training indicate a squad with strong camaraderie, a willingness to work, and a chip on their shoulders.
From a club perspective, launching an NRLW side is a significant milestone. The Panthers, fresh off their recent dominance in the NRL men’s competition, now look to extend their legacy into the women’s game. It’s a move that not only expands the Panthers’ brand but also offers crucial opportunities for young girls in Western Sydney who now have a clear pathway to the elite level without needing to leave home. It reinforces the club’s message that rugby league is for everyone.
Off the field, the Panthers are already engaging with the community to build support for the team. Initiatives in local schools, junior clubs, and cultural centers are underway, helping foster excitement and support for the women’s side. Early indications suggest strong interest in memberships and matchday attendance, and the players themselves are eager to repay the faith with heart, hustle, and pride in the jersey.
For many of these players, the debut season will be about much more than wins and losses. It’s about breaking barriers, creating history, and proving that Penrith belongs on the NRLW stage. Each time they step onto the field, they carry with them the hopes of young girls in the stands, former players who never had this opportunity, and a community eager to rally behind them.
As the season opener approaches, the Panthers know that expectations will be high—but so is the belief within the club. With a strong foundation, an elite coaching staff, and a roster built on potential and purpose, Penrith is poised to make its mark.
The NRLW is growing rapidly, and the Panthers’ entrance is both timely and symbolic. It represents progress, investment, and the elevation of women’s sport to the national spotlight. For Penrith fans, there’s a new team to cheer for, and for the players, there’s history to be made. This is not just a squad announcement—it’s the start of a new era in Panthers history, and the beginning of something truly special in the women’s game.
