In a reward for her persistence and dedication, former Jillaroos and New South Wales representative Nakia Davis-Welsh has earned an NRLW contract with the Sharks for the upcoming season.
Davis-Welsh, who featured at fullback in Australia's World Cup-winning team in 2017, has strived to crack Cronulla's top squad for the past two seasons.
The 28-year-old played for the club in the Harvey Norman Women's Premiership in 2023 before making a long-awaited NRLW debut for the Parramatta Eels.
However, Davis-Welsh came back again this year determined to break into the Sharks squad. After impressing with her mindset, she's done just that.
"I've gone back to the Sharks for three years in a row now. To be able to get picked up for the NRLW, it means so much. I'm so grateful," said Davis-Welsh, who along with her teammates officially kicked off pre-season training on Monday night.
"I was just happy to get into the squad. Whatever comes after that, I'm just grateful. I'm close with pretty much half the team that I already know now. Tony (Herman), Burkey (Peter Burke) and the coaching staff are really supportive."
Davis-Welsh, who can play a variety of backline positions, credited head coach Herman for continually encouraging and checking in on her.
The five-time Indigenous All Star was a marquee signing for the Roosters in the inaugural NRLW season in 2018 but didn't get on the field after learning she was pregnant. She came back in 2020 before stepping away to have her second child.
Now, with her young family in tow, Davis-Welsh is keen to find her feet with the Sharks. She is happy to play anywhere if the chance arises, potentially as a utility.
Herman said: "Nakia has put her head down, worked extremely hard and done everything we've asked of her to secure a spot in our NRLW squad this year.
"With her experience on the international stage and passion for the game, she will be a valuable addition to our team and a popular figure amongst the girls."
The Sharks will finalise their 2024 NRLW squad in the coming weeks ahead of a Round 1 clash with the Cowboys on July 27.
