Across the eight-year history of the NRLW, Corban Baxter and Millie Elliott have had their hands on the premiership trophy no less than five times between them.
Baxter, the foundation Rooster who led the club to its inaugural NRLW premiership in 2021, and Elliott, a four-time title winner with three different clubs - both legends, both role models, both retiring at the end of this season.
With the Roosters enjoying a week off after finishing the season as undefeated minor premiers, Baxter and Elliott made the momentous announcement that they were calling time on their glittering careers.
Among a flood of tributes from fellow players and fans, Roosters coach John Strange summed up the influence 32-year-old Baxter and 28-year-old Elliott had had on his team.
“The impact they’ve both had on the younger players in our squad has also been significant," Strange said.
"The way they prepare, how they look after their bodies, their diet and recovery, and the professionalism they bring to every aspect of being an elite athlete sets an example for those around them.
"Our younger players have been able to see first-hand what it takes to perform at this level and have learned a lot from having Corban and Millie alongside them."
For dual international Baxter and grand final specialist Elliott, 'performing at this level' has been an integral part of their lives for more than a decade.
“Being a Rooster since the first NRLW season in 2018 is something I’m incredibly proud of. I’ve grown so much during my time here, both as a player and as a person, and this club and the people in it have become like family to me,” said Baxter, a veteran of 42 NRLW games, seven Origins for NSW, seven Tests for Australia and three Maori All Stars appearances.
“To have been here from the beginning and to see how much the women’s game and our program have grown has been really special.
"There have been so many great moments along the way, and the friendships I’ve made mean so much to me. Captaining the club to its first NRLW premiership is something I’ll always cherish.
“There are so many people who have been part of my journey. I’d like to acknowledge the Cronulla Sharks for giving me the opportunity to start my rugby league career, and thank all of my past and present teammates and coaches, the staff, members and fans for their support over the years.
“I know the time is right for me to finish playing, and I’m looking forward to enjoying every moment we have left together this season."
The Roosters' dominant 11-0 home and away season secured them direct passage to a preliminary final, with one eye firmly on grand final day at a shot at redemption after a narrow loss to the Broncos in last year's decider.
Baxter goes bang, bang!
And who better to lead the way than winning machine Elliott, who won two premierships with the Broncos (2019-20) and one with the Knights as captain in 2022 before arriving at Bondi in 2023.
Come 2024 and she had a fourth ring after racking up 196 run metres as the Roosters downed the Sharks in a thrilling decider.
If the Roosters can cap a remarkable 2026 season with another premiership that would be No.5 for Elliott and the perfect way for the powerhouse prop to sign off.
“I’m at peace with the decision and excited about what comes next, but right now my focus is on enjoying the remainder of the season and hopefully finishing my career in the best possible way with this group,” said Elliott.
“Rugby league has given me so much. I’ve been fortunate to play alongside some incredible people, represent at the highest level and experience things through the game that I’ll always be grateful for.
“Coming back to play this season after becoming a mum was something that meant a lot to me. I wanted to challenge myself to get back out there and contribute to this team, and I’m really proud that I’ve been able to do that.
“I’d also like to thank my former teammates and staff at the Broncos and Knights. Both clubs have played a significant role in my journey, and I have so many great memories and friendships from my time with them that I’ll always hold close.
“The Roosters have been a really special part of my career and I’ve loved being part of this group. There’s such a strong culture here and I’ve made friendships that will last a lifetime.
"I feel incredibly grateful to have been able to live out my dream and play footy with some of my best friends."
