The Cronulla Sharks have signed Ruan Sims on the first Rugby League women’s player contract.
The contract secures the Australian Jillaroos and NSW Blues captain’s services in the black, white and blue for the 2017 season.
Sims said she was thrilled to be able to make her commitment to the Sharks official and be part of the historic moment in Rugby League.
“It’s a hugely exciting moment and something I thought would happen so I feel very privileged to be in the position,” said Sims.
The signing of the 1-year deal caps off what has been a mammoth year for Women’s Rugby League, with the first ever Women’s match being played between the Sharks and St George-Illawarra Dragons one of the highlights.
The contract also marks a special moment for Sims, who becomes more than an ambassador for the Club, becoming an official player also.
“Well obviously this means not just being an ambassador fro the Club, which I love doing but it actually means I’m being remunerated for my playing capabilities and what we do on the field as well as off the field.
“It’s so exciting to be in a position where we’ll be considered semi-professional and to be paid to play the game that we love.”
With the details of the proposed Women’s competition yet to be confirmed, stay tuned to sharks.com.au for all the latest news on the Women’s game.