Put a ring on it: Kezie sets sights on ultimate prize

It is a simple and respectful plea from Wests Tigers skipper Kezie Apps. 

“I don’t want to be the Nathan Hindmarsh of the women’s game,” she told NRL.com at the captains' call for the six finalists chasing the NRLW premiership.

The 35-year-old has enjoyed a decorated career, including being the most-capped NSW Blues women’s player, winning five State of Origin series and two World Cups. 

But there has been no premiership ring in that fine haul of silverware, just like Eels legend Hindmarsh who played 330 NRL games, 22 Tests and 17 Origins but came up empty in two grand finals with blue and gold in 2001 and 2009. 

“Obviously it is the missing piece for me personally. It’s always been a goal of mine to win a premiership each and every year I play," she said.

“Then again everyone wants that – I have been close but yet so far.” 

The scars of losing to the Broncos in the 2019 grand final and then again to the Sydney Roosters in 2021 as Dragons captain are still there.

But Apps is a naturally upbeat person.  

She moved to Wests Tigers when they entered the competition in 2023, however a change of scenery didn’t necessarily translate into an upswing in fortunes. 

The Tigers finished eighth in their foundation year and followed that with back-to-back wooden spoons in 2024 and 2025. 

But a new coach in Craig Sandercock and a raft of recruits including New Zealand Test star Raecene McGregor this year has resulted in the club sitting in the top four from Round 7 onwards.

“At least it’s another chance to get it (premiership) and we’re very close this year being near the top of the table,” she said. 

“So it’s in the back of my mind once again but it’s that old saying of one game at a time.” 

This Friday's elimination final against the Raiders will be Apps’ long-awaited 50th NRLW appearance.

She is a contemporary of players like Isabelle Kelly, Ali Brigginshaw and Keeley Nizza who are now well past the half-century milestone and heading towards 70 games. 

A run of knee and soft tissue injuries have stalled Apps, but she’s finally there now. 

“I’ve had a few injuries and I was out most of the 2024 season, think I only played three games that year," she said.

“But gosh, I never thought I’d play one NRLW game because when I was in my teens there was no elite women’s club competition.  

“So being about to play 50 is a very special moment for me.”