South Sydney Women

Last week as South Sydney’s Tarsha Gale Cup rugby league team prepared for a crucial clash against Newcastle, coach Brad Costello was full of optimism about the season ahead—despite the stiff competition from one of the NRLW’s most established teams.

Brad Costello

Costello, who has been with the Rabbitohs’ Tarsha Gale squad for three years, knows the road ahead will be tough, especially with Newcastle, who were beaten in last year’s Grand Final, bringing their strength and experience to the field. But he’s also confident that South Sydney is moving in the right direction.

“Newcastle is a powerful side with a strong pathways program and an NRLW team, so they’re definitely a benchmark for us,” says Costello. “That’s the level we want to reach, and it’s exciting to see how far we’ve come this year with a young but talented squad.”

Rabbitohs Tarsha Gale Cup co-coaches Brad Costello and Chris O’Connell.

Originally from Canberra, Costello’s journey to coaching in Sydney’s women’s rugby league scene is anything but typical. After playing rugby league in Perth, he transitioned into coaching, first with the men’s teams before getting an opportunity with the women. That chance came when he met up with Rabbitohs coach Dale Jackson at a conference, sparking a new chapter in his coaching career.

Lulu Tupola (centre) leads her Tarsha Game Cup teammates.

“After meeting Dale, I was moving to Sydney anyway to have a crack at coaching here,” recalls Costello. “He offered me the assistant role with the Tarsha Gale squad, and I’ve been with the team ever since.”

In just a few short years, Costello has seen significant growth in the Rabbitohs’ pathways program. With fresh energy and optimism around the squad this year, Costello is eager to see that translate into solid performances on the field. “There’s a lot of excitement around the pathways program this year,” he says. “The vibe is really positive, and we’re all hoping that energy will show up when it counts, starting with this weekend’s game against Newcastle.”

Kiara McGregor

Kiara McGregor – A standout for South Sydney. (Bryden Sharp Photography)

One of the standout players for South Sydney this year is young halfback Kiara McGregor. A rising star who played in the Harvey’s squad last season, McGregor has been instrumental in steering the team’s attack. “Kiara is all class,” says Costello. “She has great vision, a solid kicking game, and is a natural leader. She was only 16 or 17 when she played Harvey’s (Harvey Norman Women’s team), and she handled the pressure like a pro. She’s definitely one to watch.”

Hannah Kalland

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Hannah Kalland

Up front, the Rabbitohs have tough forward Hannah Kalland, who doesn’t shy away from a challenge. “Hannah is tough as nails,” Costello explains. “She’s always pushing to improve, and she’s a real presence in the middle. You can count on her to take the hard hits and keep going.”

Abbie Ritchie

Abbie Ritchie (centre) brings valuable experience to the squad.

Veteran player Abby Ritchie brings valuable experience to the squad, with several seasons under her belt. “Abby is a seasoned campaigner,” says Costello. “She has excellent ball skills and is great in contact. With such a young team, her leadership is invaluable.”

Tarsha Gale stars!

Jess & Teearna

In addition to McGregor, Callan, and Ritchie, Costello is excited about some of the newer talent on the team, including Jesslynn Mahanga, a strong, athletic forward, and Teearna Williams, a quick and powerful fullback. “Jess is a big, tough middle who can move well for her size,” says Costello. “She’s definitely someone to watch as she continues to develop. Teeaarna, on the other hand, has earned the fullback spot this week. She’s fast, dynamic, and strong under the high ball, making her a real threat on the field.”

With these players and a growing squad, South Sydney is aiming for a much-improved season, and Costello is eager to see how the team performs against Newcastle on Saturday. “We’re heading in the right direction,” he says. “There’s a lot of hard work ahead, but with the talent we have, I’m confident we can compete at a high level.”

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The Rabbitohs face a tough test this season, but with a coach like Costello and a talented group of players, they are set to challenge the best and make their mark on the women’s rugby league scene.

Score Update

The Rabbitohs Tarsha Gale team were defeated 42-4 by the Knights at Cessnock Sportsground. Souths led 4-0 after winger Lereit Faasoa scored the first try.

Lisa Fiaola Cup stars!

Look for an improved showing this Saturday against the Dragons at Redfern.

Read more – Dancing to the Front Row with Souths

South Sydney Women. By Emanie Darwiche for Bunnies TV.

Emanie Darwiche and Maddie Studdon at Mascot Oval.

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