The Sharks are thrilled to announce the signing of dynamic Cook Islands international Chantay Kiria-Ratu to a three-year deal starting this season.
A cool-headed playmaker with 11 NRLW appearances, the 20-year-old will compete for a spot in the halves after making the move from the Gold Coast.
Chantay's remarkable journey includes playing every game in a standout rookie season with the Titans in 2023, helping the team reach the grand final before a knee injury sidelined her in 2024. Her impressive performance earned her the 2023 Rookie of the Year award.
Chantay will be joined at the club by her sister, Annemarie Kiria-Ratu, who has signed with the Sharks' Harvey Norman NSW Women's Premiership team. This opportunity played a significant role in Chantay's decision to move to Cronulla.
"I'm excited for a fresh start, to learn new skills with my new team and coach Tony (Herman)," Chantay said.
"A change of scenery will definitely take some getting used to, but I'm eager to use this opportunity to grow outside my comfort zone. My goal is to win a premiership, and the three-year deal gives me the time to really develop and reach my full potential."
Sharks coach Tony Herman is excited to work with Kiria-Ratu, who was a standout in touch football growing up before transitioning to Rugby 7s and ultimately adapting to rugby league at Keebra Park High School.
"Chantay is a rare talent who already has World Cup and grand final experience," Herman said. "She showed in her first NRLW season a couple of years ago that she has the potential to be one of the leading players in the competition."
The Sharks are looking forward to welcoming Chantay Kiria-Ratu to the team and seeing her back on the field.
