Ali Brigginshaw has declared she intends to go out with a bang as one of the most decorated players in women’s rugby league history prepares to hang up the boots at the end of the season.
A trailblazer for the women’s game, Brigginshaw made her debut for the Broncos in the inaugural NRLW season back in 2018, captaining the side to the first of four premierships.
The veteran has also dominated the international arena, leading Australia to three World Cup titles and could become the most capped Jillaroo of all time if she features at this year’s tournament.
As the rugby league community unites for the 20th edition of Women in League Round this weekend, one of the NRLW’s early pioneers concedes she will miss the game when a record-breaking career comes to an end.
“It's just going to be a bit strange not playing rugby league,” Brigginshaw said after Thursday’s win over the Cronulla Sharks.
Growing up in Ipswich, Brigginshaw found a passion for rugby league at a young age and began her journey in the sport playing for the North Ipswich Tigers. Like many girls her age, the playmaker was forced to give up the game as she entered her teenage years due to the absence of a girls competition to play in.
Brigginshaw eventually returned to the sport as a 20-year-old in 2009, setting her on a trajectory to her position today as a leading voice in the game.
Perhaps the biggest change during the veteran’s involvement with rugby league has been the establishment of a clear pathway from junior competitions right up to the elite game.
With a host of young stars making the transition to the NRLW each year, Brigginshaw can already see the benefits of the investment in the women’s game at the grassroots.
“That’s why we play, to give these young girls the opportunity and to inspire the next generation,” Brigginshaw said.
Brigginshaw’s upcoming retirement has prompted the Broncos to begin planning for the future. The club took the first step in that process when the playmaker handed the captaincy duties to fullback Tamika Upton.
The move took many by surprise, but Brigginshaw has no doubts in her teammate’s ability to lead Brisbane to sustained success in the coming years.
“Tamika’s always been ready for that role, and the organization has just made it a very seamless process.”
Brisbane have made a perfect start to Brigginshaw’s final campaign, securing victories over the Cowboys and Sharks in the opening two rounds of the season.
The Broncos face a new test against the resurgent Wests Tigers at Totally Workwear Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
The Tigers are also undefeated to start the season, with new halfback Raecene McGregor orchestrating a dramatic turnaround from last year.
The match marks another step in the Broncos’ quest to defend their NRLW premiership, with Brigginshaw desperate to claim a fifth title before hanging up the boots.
It’s a goal her teammates are eager to facilitate, with Upton determined to send her friend out on a high.
“There’s always motivation for that premiership,” Upton said. “She's not usually been known for her defensive side of the game, but what she’s doing for us defensively is insane.
“She gives this group an extra boost when we’re dropping, so it’s just a privilege to be out there with her.”
NRL.com
