A new Head Coach and the recruitment of some experienced players have the Wests Tigers excited and primed for the 2026 NRLW season.
The Tigers open their season on Sunday, 5 July, against the Parramatta Eels at CommBank Stadium under Craig Sandercock, the side's new Head Coach. Kick-off is at 11.50am.
This year’s squad features 13 new players headed by the likes of established NRLW stars Raecene McGregor, Holli Wheeler and Shaylee Bent.
Their experience and leadership alongside Captain Kezie Apps will be invaluable to some of the younger players in the squad.
The 13 new players also reflect the continued investment from the Club in strengthening the squad.
Furthermore, the return of players such as Christian Pio, Losana Lutu, Harmony Crichton and Brooke Talataina provides an additional boost to the squad's depth.
On top of this, the Tigers will again have the services of exciting full-back Caitlin Turnbull following a superb debut NRLW season in 2025.
The 25-year-old scored eight tries in 10 matches, and her natural attacking ability will be a strong asset to the side.
Apps said the new players have made an immediate impact at training.
“They have helped to change the culture and the work ethic we have here,’’ Apps said.
“It’s been great, it’s been refreshing. Everyone that is part of the Wests Tigers Club and our team are all here for the right reasons.
“They all want to see us succeed.
“I’m excited to see what Raecene can do. She will help direct us around the park with her leadership skills.”
Former St George-Illawarra Dragons outside back, Shenai Lendill, is another new face. She said the opportunity to work under Sandercock was a major factor in joining the Club.
"A big reason I came here was because of ‘Sandy’ and (new High Performance Manager), Richmond Saliba,’’ Lendill said.
"It’s been a really hard pre-season, probably one of my hardest under Rich. There’s a lot of talent around."
One of the Club’s major signings is experienced forward Holli Wheeler. She admits the move to Wests Tigers has reignited her passion for the game.
"I feel like I’ve got a new lease on life, I’m really excited," Wheeler said.
"Getting to come here under Sandy and Rich, I’ve played under them before.
"I started my NRLW career with Kezie and Rikeya Horne, so to come here and to be playing alongside them and Raecene, it’s a full-circle moment."
