The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs are thrilled to announce the signing of Holli Wheeler, marking a significant addition to their roster for the inaugural NRLW season in 2025. Wheeler, a formidable forward, has signed a two-year contract with an option to extend through 2027. She will join former Bulldogs teammate Tayla Preston, along with other newly announced recruits for the Club’s NRLW entry. Both Wheeler and Preston were key players in the Bulldogs’ 2023 Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership Team, with Wheeler earning the Player of the Year award and Preston receiving the Coaches Award.
Wheeler’s impact on women’s rugby league is well-established, having been an inaugural player for the St George Illawarra Dragons from 2018 to 2022, and spending the 2023 season with the Cronulla Sharks. Known for her resilience, hard running style, and strong work ethic, Wheeler has also represented NSW State of Origin and the Australian Jillaroos.
She is expected to bring her extensive experience and leadership to the Bulldogs and has already been an advocate for the Club’s female pathways development. In her testimonial for the NRLW licence submission, Wheeler stated:
“As someone who has played at the highest level of women’s rugby league, I can confidently say that the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs are more than ready for entry into the NRLW. It’s not just about the skills and resources; it’s about the culture and environment they’ve created. This club has the heart and soul to make their entry into the NRLW a success.”
NRLW Head Coach Blake Cavallaro expressed his confidence in Wheeler’s leadership and commitment:
“Holli is a strong leader in the women’s game. She has played at the elite level for NSW and Australia, and she has an inherent sense of what it means to be a Bulldog. I believe she will embody the Bulldogs’ values and lead from the front as a middle forward. She will bring hunger, passion, and pride to the Canterbury jersey, and that is all I can ask of any of the women who wear the Bulldogs badge.”
Wheeler will complete her NRLW season with the Cronulla Sharks before joining the Bulldogs for the 2025 season. The Bulldogs will refrain from further comments regarding Wheeler’s 2024 commitments and look forward to her impact with the Club in the Blue and White.
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