Broncos young star, Shalom Sauaso, has been named the Rugby League Players Association (RLPA), 2025 Rookie of the Year – as voted by the NRLW players.
“There are so many great rookies in the competition this year and for me to be chosen for this award is such a blessing,” she said.
The 18-year-old has made an incredible impact to the Broncos in her debut season, with 74 tackle breaks, four tries, an average of 140 run metres and 53 post-contact metres in just eight games.
Sauaso joined the Broncos in 2024 after a highly successful Super W rugby union season with the Queensland Reds, which saw her earn an Australian Wallaroos jersey.
The Ipswich teenager was scouted by Broncos co-captain, Ali Brigginshaw, and signed her first NRLW development contract on her 17th birthday.
The utility player was upgraded to a top 24 contract at the end of last year and has quickly progressed to become a consistent member of the NRLW team.
She said she was honoured to be given the award.
I think it’s a proud moment for me because it shows that I belong somewhere.
Shalom Sauaso
RLPA Rookie Of The Year
“The girls are like my family, so it means a lot, especially because the award was chosen by them.”
CEO of the RLPA, Clint Newton OAM, extended his congratulations to Sauaso.
“Shalom is powerful, damaging, physical, and – most importantly – she is proud of who she is, her family and culture.
Shalom is relentless in how she plays, and to be named the best Rookie by the players she competes against is a tremendous accolade.
Clint Newton OAM
CEO of the RLPA
“We cannot wait to see what the future holds for Shalom: in the short term for her team as they charge into the finals, but also beyond that as she continues to establish herself as a dominant and formidable force in the NRLW.”
Sauaso is also a finalist for the RLPA Players’ Dream Team and is one of three finalists for the Impact Player of the season.
The NRLW Dream Team will be announced on Wednesday, September 24.
Meanwhile, Broncos’ Co-Captain Tamika Upton was voted RLPA Player of the Month – also voted by the players – for her performances during an undefeated month for the Club.
Chelsea Lenarduzzi was a finalist for the Dennis Tutty award for her leadership, service and commitment to the advancement and protection of player rights.
Lenarduzzi is a Club Delegate, part of the Women’s Player Advisory Groups and Director on the Board of the RLPA where she consistently leads the playing group with her respected voice.
The 29-year-old won the award in 2023 and was proud to be a finalist again this year.