The rookie of class of 2025 was an absolute beauty with the likes of Shalom Sauaso, Indie Bostock and Elise Simpson showing their class in superb debut seasons.
The NRL.com writers scan the 12 NRLW sides in search of a rising star set to emerge when the new season kicks off in July.
Brad Walter: Tori Shipton started the 2025 season playing Tarsha Gale Cup for the Illawarra Steelers and finished with selection in the Australian PM's XIII team. Initially signed on a development contract with the Dragons, the 18-year-old was called up in Round 6 during an injury crisis and maintained her spot on the interchange for the remainder of the season. After making a stunning impact out of dummy half to score two tries and average 75 running metres, Shipton is vying for a starting berth in 2026 and her combination with halfback Kasey Reh could be crucial to the success of the Dragons.
Tori Shipton Try
Cameron Mee: Rugby league fans received a glimpse of Fontayne Tufuga's potential during two appearances for the Eels in 2025 and the edge forward is set for an even bigger role next season. Such is the regard Parramatta officials hold the NSW Under 19 representative, Tufuga is locked in at the Eels until the end of 2028. A powerful ball carrier, the teenager has progressed through the club's pathway and is expected to take a big step forward in 2026. The departure of Paige Travis will open up an opportunity for Tufuga to receive more playing time and she is set to make an instant impact.
Namoe Gesa Try
Colleen Edwards: Although yet to make her NRLW debut, Wests Tigers appear to have a rising star on their hands in young gun Namoe Gesa. Signed from the Brisbane Tigers, the 18-year-old talent had a winning 2025 season, claiming both the Queensland state and national schoolgirls titles with Marsden State High School, as well as featuring in undefeated seasons with the Tigers in their Harvey Norman Under 19 and BMD Premiership campaigns on their way to collecting their trophies. Also selected in the Queensland Under 18 Emerging squad, Gesa - who is also eligible for Tonga - will be looking to lock down a centre spot under new NRLW coach Craig Sandercock.
Martin Lenehan: Watch for 20-year-old Montaya Hudson to make her mark with the Dragons in 2026 after shifting from Brisbane in search of greater opportunities. A gifted athlete who represented Queensland in rugby league, touch and rugby sevens at Under 18 level, Hudson played fullback for the Maroons in the 2024 Under 19s Origin clash in 2024. She was promoted to the Broncos’ Top 24 in 2025 but unseating her childhood hero Tamika Upton, Kerri Johnson and Hayley Maddick was never going to be easy. Joining forces with Nathan Cross' Dragons in 2026, expect Hudson to shine in a youthful backline brimming with p
