A champion on and off the field, Sharks star Emma Tonegato has been nominated for the esteemed Veronica White Medal in recognition of her life-changing community work.
Presented by the NRL and sponsored by Westpac, the Veronica White Medal is awarded each season to an NRLW player who positively contributes to the community.
One nominee from each club was announced this afternoon, forming the 2024 NRLW Community Team of the Year. A week-long fan vote – closing on Monday 26 August at 11.59pm – is now open to decide one of four finalists for the prestigious medal.
Tonegato epitomises what it means to go above and beyond to make a difference.
Along with her playing commitments, Tonegato is the club's Equal Access Lead, a role in which she dedicates herself to making rugby league inclusive for all.
A qualified occupational therapist, the 29-year-old delivers a range of transformative disability programs and clinics, presents at schools and represents NRL Wheelchair.
On top of this, the world-class playmaker assists with school holiday clinics and various other Sharks Have Heart initiatives, spreading kindness and joy in all settings.
She is a tremendous role model and advocate for the NRLW, seizing every opportunity to uplift and inspire the next generation through her words and actions.
"Emma is an invaluable asset for our club," Sharks Head of Community Vinh Tran said.
"She understands how to use her profile and experience to create a genuine impact in the community.
"Emma is beloved by all her program participants and the work she is doing in the Equal Access space is having a significant impact and removing some of the barriers for people with disability to connect with rugby league.
"We are so proud to have Emma at the Sharks and would encourage our community to get behind her nomination and vote for her for the Veronica White Medal."
Tonegato plays a key role in facilitating the club's Mega Jaws, Mega Waves, Score Sharks and Game Changer programs. Click here for an overview of each initiative.
"I love getting involved in the community," Tonegato said.
"I love bringing the game of rugby league to all and seeing everyone's faces when they try something new and get involved. It's something I'm really passionate about, having done a degree in occupational therapy.
"It's really special to contribute in that way and make sure all those people who may have difficulty going to a game or playing footy get their special way to interact with the game.
"For anyone out there who wants to get involved in the community, I would say… say yes to absolutely everything your club offers and get involved as much as you can.
"It also fills your cup and helps you feel a part of something bigger, a part of your community and part of your club as well."
Get behind Emma by voting today – click the link below!
