Emma Manzelmann entered the 2021 season as one of the most feared members of the North Queensland Gold Stars squad and the 19-year-old only enhanced that reputation.
Manzelmann was tonight named Gold Stars Player of the Year after a sensational season in the BHP Premiership.
The 19-year-old Mackay product has lived and breathed rugby league since taking the game up at the age of seven.
As one of the smallest bodies on the field, Manzelmann plays well above her stature. Her dynamic running out of dummy half was one of the main attacking threats for the Gold Stars in 2021, but despite standing at just 166cm, she also made her mark in defence.
A former Queensland under 18s representative, Manzelmann narrowly missed selection in the Queensland Women’s side in 2021.
Manzelmann finished the BHP Premiership season with two tries, three try assists and a 95 per cent tackle efficiency.
Unfortunately, Manzelmann was unable to accept the award at tonight’s Cowboys Presentation Night as she remains in quarantine after returning from her NRLW commitments in NSW.