Melbourne has taken a significant step towards one day having an NRLW team after the club announced its squads for the 2026 Tarsha Gale and Lisa Fiaola competitions.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s a major development in the club\u2019s female pathways program, with the Storm set to enter the NSW under-17 and under-19 competitions for the first time.<\/p>\n
The teams are part of the club\u2019s long-term Road to AAMI Park strategy that allows elite junior players to develop through the Storm system with a clear path to the NRL and possibly the NRLW one day.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re delighted to announce our Storm under-17 and under-19 squads for 2026,\u201d female pathways manager Pauline Poloai said.<\/p>\n
\u201cBoth teams showcase an exciting mix of talent from across Victoria, reflecting our commitment to developing strong female pathways, from grassroots, schools, and local clubs, through to a future NRLW program.\u201d<\/p>\n
Jack Gould has been brought in as the female pathways coach and will oversee both the Tarsha Gale and Lisa Fiaola programs after he spent the past five years with the Sharks helping develop players into their NRLW system. <\/p>\n
\u201cThe introduction of our under-17 and under-19 female squads, together with Jack Gould\u2019s appointment, marks another significant step in growing rugby league participation and development across Melbourne and Victoria,\u201d football director Frank Ponissi said.<\/p>\n
\u201cAlongside our established male pathways and the introduction of a men\u2019s NSW Cup team in 2026, we\u2019re creating a clear, connected system from grassroots rugby league through to the professional game.\u201d<\/p>\n
The NRL is working towards having all clubs in the NRLW, with the Storm, Rabbitohs, Dolphins, Panthers and Sea Eagles the only clubs yet to have a women\u2019s team.<\/p>\n
2026 Lisa Fiaola Squad (U17)<\/p>\n
Aaliyah Keresoma, Anaviela Weatherly, Anillia Heather-Marsters, Alyssa Rina Matue, Azaria Bartley, Caprice Buskermolen, Calais Kaho-Wynyard, Carla Aho, Claire Roberts, Dandelian Luamanu, Hadassah Scanlan, Halo Titimaea, Harmony Taupau, Heather Nasilai, Ioana Ellysah Komiti, Jahmilah Simei-Fauatea, Keira Collins, Lasela Anitelea, Leisi Kirirua-Gill, Makerita Seinafolava, Ocean Kaiwai-Rangikauhata, Olivia Saumalu, Oriana Ioane, Pearl Potesio, Peyton Folomu-Koria, Rozaliah Matavao, Siulepa (Sharon) Peteru, Taylor Marama, Havana Puke, River Su\u2019a, Margaret Mika, Caroline Lolohea<\/p>\n
2026 Tarsha Gale Squad (U19)<\/p>\n
Akeelah Coffin, Akoija George, Alexis Fenton, Aria Mcfelin, Ayva Tauti, Caroline Cook, Deandrea Morgan, Dhillon Baker, Dhyllen Afuie, Eboni Heurea, Eleksia Finau-Fotu, Flo Fuiono, Gail Faaiu, Gina Aiono, Gyziah Faye Apera, Jada Patelesio, Justice Daymond, Kamanu Li\u2019l Dennis, Katelyn Faifili-Boon, Kirita Eli, Kyana Gordon-Wendt, Mahlia Davys, Melaea Palavi, Shelby Kohunui, Sierra Teo, Star Slater, Teresa Eli, Toefiliga Lokeni, Vahoi Matangi, Zerenity Tuala<\/p>\n