Ipswich State High School has become a major hub for aspiring female athletes since the establishment of a dedicated rugby league academy that now sees more than 150 girls trial annually for a chance to train at an elite level.
From Sidelines to Centre Field
The program has grown significantly since it began more than a decade ago. It started with just 16 players and has expanded into a highly competitive pathway for students in years 7 to 12. NRL Hall of Fame recipient Veronica White, who established the initiative, said her main goal was to provide equal opportunity for girls who often asked why boys were the only ones playing the sport.
She explained that the program aims to build self-esteem and confidence in young women, teaching them to be sure of themselves both on the field and in their personal lives.
Education Comes First
While the training is rigorous, the school places a heavy emphasis on academic success. Coach Alex Nicholson, who heads the rugby league program, stated that football is important to the students, but their education remains the priority. He noted that students must maintain an 85 per cent attendance rate to keep their spot in the squad.
According to Nicholson, the school defines excellence not just by training performance but by the quality of people the students become. He emphasized that the ultimate goal is to set these young women up for a successful life after they graduate.
A Full Circle Moment
For teacher Nikki Cox, the program represents a major shift from her own school days. A former student of the school and an ex-Ipswich Jets player, Cox recalled that she used to be the only girl on the team. She noted that while she could participate in fitness and touch games, she missed out on the contact aspects of the sport.
Cox said returning to teach at her former school feels like destiny. She expressed that rugby league is the ultimate team sport and that the connection formed with teammates is difficult to compare to anything else. She is now motivated to help current students experience the opportunities she missed as a teenager.
Building Future Goals
The program is already making an impact on the younger students. Year 7 student Aniela Leo’o said she was surprised to be selected after trialling against many girls from different schools. She mentioned that she had played rugby league her whole life and heard about the opportunity through her parents and social media. Leo’o, who hopes to work in bio-medicine one day, said the program helps her stay focused on her classes while training to achieve her athletic goals.
Published Date 17-December-2025
