NRLW The Players: Caitlin Turnbull
Wests Tigers recruit Caitlin Turnbull has taken an unconventional path to the NRLW stage, making her way to the club from Canberra via a multi-sport background to now don the black, white and orange.
One of a number of new signings joining the club ahead of the 2025 NRLW season, Turnbull is looking to showcase her talents at the top level of women’s rugby league.
The 24-year-old back began her sporting journey on the netball court before transitioning into touch football and then OzTag, where she made a name for herself on the national stage.
“I started playing for Australia in OzTag when I was 16,” Turnbull said.
“From there, I had a season or two training with the Aussie Sevens squad, and then made the switch to league two years ago.”
In an outstanding 2024 season with Wentworthville Magpies in the Harvey Norman NSW Women’s Premiership, Turnbull played 11 games, scoring 13 tries and averaging 168 running metres per match.
Caitlin is now gearing up for her debut NRLW season with Wests Tigers.
“My manager was really helpful. He reached out to a few teams and said that Brett [Kimmorley] was keen to have a chat and show me around the facilities,” she explained.
That visit proved a turning point.
“It was a bit overwhelming at first, especially since I’ve only just started playing league. But seeing the brand-new facilities and everything Wests Tigers could offer, it was amazing.”
Still early in her rugby league career, Turnbull is focused on soaking up knowledge from the experienced squad around her.
Caitlin is keen to learn from the likes of Jillaroos co-captain, Kezie Apps.
“I’m taking it step by step. I just want to learn as much as I can from the players here and the coaching staff.
“Someone like Kezie, she’s so composed and knowledgeable.
I’d love to learn from her and understand how she handles pressure.
Caitlin Turnbull on Kezie Apps
Motivated by a strong inner drive and the desire to prove doubters wrong, Turnbull says her family also plays a big part in her journey.
“I’ve always been very competitive and self-motivated. There were people who said I couldn’t make it, so proving them wrong is a big one for me. But also, my family means everything - they’re behind me 100 percent and I want to make them proud.”
Turnbull impressed in the club's trial match against the Dragons on Sunday, splitting her time between the wing and fullback.
With her debut NRLW season just around the corner, Caitlin Turnbull is ready to showcase her skills and make her mark.
