Highly-rated young prop Jacinta Carter is out to establish herself as an NRLW force in 2025 after signing a two-year deal with the Sharks.
Carter, a two-time Queensland under 19s representative who made her top-grade debut for the Knights in 2023, is eager to take her game to another level in fresh surroundings.
The 21-year-old forward took part in an all-club female training session last Saturday and has enjoyed getting to know her new teammates.
"I'm looking for a new start. I'm transitioning from the junior level and I really want to start taking on a more experienced role," Carter said.
"A new start here with a different team, different place – I've never lived in Sydney before – I think can really jumpstart that.
"The Sharks have a really good bunch of girls, so I'm very excited."
The Brisbane-born Carter, who spent time in the Broncos system on a development contract, has played three NRLW games including one last year.
She also featured for Newcastle in last year's Harvey Norman NSW Women's Premiership grand final loss to Illawarra.
The front-rower is aiming to add to her NRLW match tally with the guidance of Sharks coach Tony Herman.
"I'm very excited to play under him. I really like Hermo. He just wants me to be a super aggressive middle, which I think I can definitely bring to the table," Carter added.
"I'm excited to be an aggressive middle and just go out there and cause carnage. That's one of the messages for now and I think it'll probably grow as the season goes on.
"My goal is just to be consistently in the team. Making that 17 each week is where I want to start. Just be really consistent throughout the year."
Herman is equally enthusiastic about coaching Carter.
"Jacinta is a fantastic addition to our forward stocks. At 21, she has an extremely bright future and is ready for a breakout season," Herman said.
"She's already fit into the squad brilliantly. We're looking forward to seeing Jacinta grab her opportunity and make an impact through the middle."
Carter was impressed by what she saw from the Sharks in their run to the 2024 grand final and can't wait to contribute to the squad's success.
"They're very strong, fit and they look really connected, which is massively important," she said.
"I can already see that being with the girls and I'm so excited to be part of the team."
