From Strength to Strength: Aliyah Gordon’s Journey to the Rabbitohs

At just 17, Aliyah Gordon is already making waves in women’s rugby league. A natural athlete with a deep family connection to the sport, her path to the Tarsha Gale Rabbitohs has been anything but typical—but it’s a true testament to her dedication and passion for the game.

A chat with Aliyah on Bunnies TV.

Aliyah’s journey began at just four years old, but it wasn’t always smooth sailing. Back then, opportunities for girls in rugby league were few and far between, forcing her to take a break from the sport until the age of 14. “There was no girls’ footy when I was younger, so I had to stop for a few years,” Aliyah recalls. But when junior women’s leagues began to grow, she was back in the game with a vengeance. After two seasons with Lisa Fiaola, Aaliyah made her debut for the Tarsha Gale Rabbitohs.

Aliyahs Injury

Sadly, Aaliyah is currently sidelined due to injury, but her resilience is as strong as ever. “It’s tough, but I’m pushing through,” she says. “I love watching the girls play, seeing the hard work they put in. I wish I was out there with them, but I’ll be back soon.” Her determination to overcome setbacks reflects her fierce commitment to the game.

After two seasons with Lisa Fiaola, Aaliyah made her debut for the Tarsha Gale Rabbitohs.

NRLW

When asked about the growth of women’s rugby league, Aaliyah can’t hide her excitement. “The NRLW has only been around for seven years, and to see how much it’s grown already is incredible,” she says. “Now, there are more opportunities for young girls, and the junior ranks are getting stronger each year.”

Dad Buddy

Aaliyah plays as a centre or wing—positions where her speed, skill, and game awareness shine. Her dad Yileen ‘Buddy’ Gordon, a former South Sydney Rabbitoh, has been a major influence on her career. “Dad was a centre, wing too when he started. He debuted for Souths at 18 and finished as a front-rower. Watching him has been a huge inspiration. His love for the game and his work ethic drive me to be better every day.”

Yileen ‘Buddy’ Gordon – Rugby League NRL Round 25 Rabbitohs v Roosters at Sydney Olympic Stadium, Saturday September 1st 2007. Digital image by Colin Whelan.

Her father’s influence extends beyond just support—he’s also her coach. “Dad critiques me a lot, and I love it. It helps me improve,” she says, a smile in her voice. Their bond is clearly a big part of her success, both on and off the field.

Mum Cares

But Aaliyah’s inspiration doesn’t stop with her dad. Her mum, Alisha, CEO of South Cares, is another massive influence. “Mum is a big inspiration to me. She does so much for the community, and I see the difference she makes every day. She loves her job, and it’s clear that she has a real impact on people’s lives.”

Aaliyah, who also works with South Cares through a school-based traineeship, shares her mum’s passion for community work. “It’s amazing to see the difference you can make in people’s lives. That’s something I want to do more of in the future,” she says.

Ready To Rise

Aliyah Gordon

Though Aaliyah’s career is still in its early stages, her passion, resilience, and work ethic already set her apart as one to watch in the future. With the support of her family and a growing presence in the Rabbitohs’ pathways system, it’s only a matter of time before we see her back on the field, ready to showcase her skills and continue her rise in women’s rugby league.

From Strength to Strength: Aliyah Gordon’s Journey to the Rabbitohs

By Emanie Darwiche for Bunnies TV.

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