Pio backing new-look Tigers to roar

With Round 1 of the NRLW season kicking off this weekend, Wests Tigers forward Christian Pio says her side is ready to rise to the challenge after a long and focused pre-season.

Now entering her third season at the club, Pio has witnessed the highs and lows of Wests Tigers’ NRLW journey, and she’s confident that 2025 is the start of something special.

“I think the long pre-season kind of prepped us for the season ahead,” said Pio.

“I’d say we’re ready and we’re keen for the season.”

The 2025 campaign marks a new era for the Tigers, with 14 new players joining the squad; a significant roster refresh that Pio believes will provide the spark needed to push the team into finals contention.

“We try not to look back too much; we can’t change much about that,” she said of last season’s results.

“But I trust the girls we’ve selected.

“They’re great girls, and I believe we’ll get to the finals with this roster.”

One new recruit who has already made a big impression is New Zealand-born outside back Terina Te Tamaki, who joined the team mid-preseason.

“She’s come from New Zealand, moved away from family, and she’s bought into everything,” said Pio.

“Although she’s new to the game, she’s still a leader.

“Whether it’s running the ball, talking to the girls, or just being the best support person on the field; she’s amazing.”

Pio has also embraced her own growing leadership role within the team, especially with the squad’s younger players.

“I still see myself as someone that’s learning, but I’ve been in the game a long time and some of the girls do look up to me,” she said.

“It’s not always about mentoring, they’ve got the traits already, but just being that senior support makes a big difference.”

The Tigers begin their season on the road against the Brisbane Broncos, before returning home to face the Bulldogs in Campbelltown in Round 2.