Building on the momentum of last year’s inaugural event and following a landmark NRLW season where the Cowboys reached their first-ever home final, the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys Open Womens trial returns on Saturday 13th December to Jack Manski Oval.
Continuing to grow the pathway for female athletes across North Queensland, the trial provides opportunities for players from regional and remote areas to showcase their talent and experience first-hand what is required to perform at an elite level.
Female players eligible to play open-age rugby league are invited to apply for an invitation to trial, where they will be considered for selection into the Cowboys Open Women’s Elite Development Squad, as well as the BMD Premiership squads and extended academies at the Northern Pride and Mackay Cutters.
Across the weekend, invited athletes will be provided the opportunity to showcase their rugby league skills and fitness under the watchful eye of our Cowboys NRLW and BMD State Cup Coaches.
Cowboys Head of NRLW & Women’s Elite Pathways, Anita Creenaune, said last year’s event highlighted both the depth of talent and the hunger for opportunity across the region.
“Last year’s trial exceeded our expectations. We had athletes from right across North Queensland put their hand up and showcase their talent,” Creenaune said.
“We discovered athletes who are now progressing through our pathway programs, but just as importantly, we gave players visibility of what the elite standard looks like and what it takes to break into the NRLW system.”
“We’re excited to build on the success of last year and see who steps forward in 2025.”
Players who believe they can meet the physical and performance demands of an elite pathway are encouraged to apply using the link below. Only shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend.
>> Apply for the Cowboys Open Womens Trial here <<
- Saturday, 13 December 2025 from 8am
- Townsville Blackhawks, Jack Manski Oval, Kirwan
Trial registration will cost $50 and participants will receive:
- Trial Training Shirt
- Light refreshments
- Selection panel consisting of NQ National & State level coaches
During the trial, players will be provided an opportunity to prove their talent across three criteria;
- Physical athleticism; strength, fitness and speed
- In-game skills and gamesmanship; defense / attack
- Cowboys core values - Competitiveness, Drive, Humility & Effort
Once registered, staff will assess your application and issue an invitation to attend along with further details on the trial and payment.
Numbers are limited and registration does not guarantee admittance to the trial. Applicants must provide accurate and detailed information to ensure they meet the eligibility criteria to be issued an official trial invitation.
Players who trial are NOT GUARANTEED selection to Cowboys NRLW team or the Elite Development Squad/s nor does it guarantee selection to either of the NQ State League BMD Premiership teams.
Applications will be considered on a first come, first served basis with only 60 trial positions available. Successful applicants will receive a formal registration link to confirm their attendance.
Please note: Players who are carrying injury and who require running or contact modifications should not apply.
