One of the cross-code converts looking to make a name for themselves in the NRLW, Caitlin Urwin made an instant impact in her Broncos debut.
A former Queensland Reds Super Rugby Women’s player and member of last year's Wallaroos World Cup squad, Urwin, lit up Suncorp Stadium in front of a strong 14,371 crowd, notching up 94 run meters, three tackle breaks and one try.
Starting on the right wing, Urwin was one of four debutants for the Broncos in the 50-4 win against the Cowboys.
“It was a really exciting week all around, and then to go out there and get the win with the girls was amazing,” Urwin said.
Urwin was also part of the Broncos pre-season training squad in 2024 and decided put pen to paper just weeks before this year's NRLW season opener to complete the switch.
“I guess it was a pretty late switch," Urwin said.
"I think I've had a month of pre-season and it was absolutely hectic coming in so close to the season.
“The conditioning was wild and just a bit of different contact, I guess.
"But the whole coaching staff and all of the girls were just so supportive and really encouraging through that, so it was easy.”
Urwin credited her right edge team-mates in Romy Teitzel and Julia Robinson for enabling her to become comfortable within her new role.
“I've got Romy, Robbo, and obviously Tamika (Upton) who swings a lot on for my side as well, so they’ve been awesome to learn off and play with," Urwin said.
"They’ve been helping me out and trying to get the footy in my hands.”
Coach Scott Prince spoke with pride after the game about debutants Urwin, Georgia Bartlett, Rhemy Hinckesman and Harlem Walker’s efforts.
Urwin, Hinckesman and Walker all scored tries in their maiden appearance, while Bartlett had a game high three try assists.
“We’ve got a really good group there which obviously Meeks (Upton) leads the way there,” Prince said.
“As for making them girls feel really welcome within our group and to see them score some points out there tonight, it’s pleasing.
"I think I was smiling and ‘ya-hooing’ along the way ... all the girls that took the field (tonight) certainly enjoyed it and deserved their opportunity.”
This is an opportunity Urwin doesn’t want to give up anytime soon.
“My focus this year is to just play as much footy as I can and get my hands on the ball as much as I can which will be awesome," Urwin said.
"I just want to get comfortable with the game and to learn those different little things."
The reigning premiers have a short turnaround this week and are preparing to head down to Sydney to take on the Cronulla Sharks for Round 2.
NRL.com
