It is with immense pride and excitement that we announce a milestone moment for both Emily Eden and the entire Arndell community. Emily, a dedicated and talented alumna from the Class of 2019, has been named in the Penrith Panthers’ inaugural Women’s Premiership squad for the 2025 season. This achievement marks a major step forward, not only in Emily’s promising rugby career but also in the evolution of women’s rugby league in Australia.
Emily’s journey began on the fields of Arndell Anglican College, where she first discovered her passion and flair for rugby union. From her early days wearing the College’s Girls Rugby Union jersey, it was clear that Emily possessed a rare natural talent. Season after season, she proved herself to be a fierce competitor and a team player who could inspire those around her. Her commitment, skill, and love for the game earned her admiration among coaches and peers alike. Now, as she transitions to one of the most competitive stages in women’s rugby league, we couldn’t be more thrilled to see her reach new heights.
The announcement that Emily will be part of the Penrith Panthers’ historic Women’s Premiership squad is significant on multiple fronts. The Panthers’ inclusion of a women’s team in 2025 is a reflection of the growing recognition and support for women’s participation in rugby league. This move aligns with the broader national and international efforts to promote gender equality in sports and provide female athletes with platforms to showcase their talents at the highest level. For Emily, being chosen as a foundational member of this squad is a testament to her dedication, hard work, and exceptional ability on the field.
For those who have followed Emily’s journey, her rise to the elite ranks of rugby league is a story of perseverance and passion. At Arndell, she developed the foundational skills that would later become the hallmark of her playing style—strength, agility, strategic thinking, and teamwork. These qualities allowed her to excel in the College’s Girls Rugby Union teams, where she was often a standout player. But Emily’s commitment extended beyond just individual performance. She was known for her leadership, her ability to uplift her teammates, and her unyielding spirit in the face of challenges. These attributes have undoubtedly played a critical role in her progression to professional rugby league.
The transition from rugby union to rugby league is not always an easy one, but Emily has embraced it with enthusiasm and determination. The two sports, while sharing many similarities, also require distinct skill sets and tactical approaches. Emily’s adaptability and quick learning curve have allowed her to adjust seamlessly to the demands of rugby league, earning her recognition from coaches and selectors. Her inclusion in the Panthers’ squad is a clear indication that her talent and work ethic have not gone unnoticed.
The upcoming 2025 Women’s Premiership season is poised to be a landmark event. The formation of women’s squads by prominent clubs like the Penrith Panthers signifies a new era for rugby league, opening doors for many young female athletes who aspire to play professionally. It also reflects the increasing popularity and competitiveness of women’s rugby league across Australia. Matches are expected to draw enthusiastic crowds, with communities rallying behind their teams and celebrating the achievements of women in sport. For Emily, this means stepping onto the field not just as a player but as a trailblazer helping to shape the future of the game.
Emily’s debut in the Premiership season will kick off on Sunday, 6 July, when the Panthers face off against the Central Coast Roosters at Woy Woy Oval. This inaugural match promises to be a thrilling contest and a historic occasion for everyone involved. Fans, family, friends, and the Arndell community will undoubtedly be watching with great anticipation and pride as Emily takes to the field representing her new team. The support for Emily is overwhelming, and it’s clear that her journey is an inspiration to many young athletes, particularly girls who dream of making their mark in rugby league or any other sport.
Looking back at Emily’s time at Arndell Anglican College, it is evident that the College’s commitment to fostering sporting excellence and providing opportunities for female athletes played a crucial role in her development. The Girls Rugby Union program at Arndell is renowned for its supportive environment and focus on skill development, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Coaches and staff have long emphasized the importance of resilience, discipline, and passion—qualities that Emily embodied throughout her years at the College. Her success story highlights the impact of dedicated school programs that nurture talent and empower young women to pursue their sporting ambitions.
Moreover, Emily’s achievement resonates beyond the rugby field. It underscores the growing recognition of women’s sports and the breaking down of traditional barriers. For decades, women athletes have fought for equal opportunities, visibility, and respect in the sporting world. Today, with professional women’s leagues gaining momentum and media coverage increasing, female athletes like Emily Eden are becoming role models and ambassadors for the next generation. Her selection for the Panthers’ squad is not just a personal triumph but also a symbol of progress for women’s sports in Australia and worldwide.
As Emily prepares for the challenges and excitement of the 2025 Women’s Premiership season, she carries with her the hopes and support of an entire community. The journey ahead will demand rigorous training, strategic thinking, and resilience against formidable opponents. But if her track record at Arndell and her dedication to rugby are any indication, Emily is more than ready to rise to the occasion. The Panthers’ coaching staff have expressed confidence in her ability to contribute meaningfully to the team’s success, and fans are eager to witness her impact on the field.
The significance of this moment cannot be overstated. Emily’s journey from a passionate school player to a professional athlete in a historic team reflects the power of hard work, community support, and the growing opportunities for women in sport. It is a story that inspires pride not only in Arndell Anglican College but also in the broader community that champions the advancement of women athletes. As Emily steps into this new chapter, we stand united in cheering her on every step of the way.
In closing, the entire Arndell community congratulates Emily Eden on this outstanding achievement. Her selection for the Penrith Panthers’ inaugural Women’s Premiership squad is a landmark moment that marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in her sporting career. We look forward to following her progress throughout the season and celebrating the many successes that are sure to come. Emily, you have our unwavering support and best wishes as you take on this thrilling new challenge. We are proud to call you one of our own and can’t wait to see you shine on the field.
Go Panthers! Go Emily!
