Former Jillaroo and President of the Australian Women’s Rugby League, Veronica White has been confirmed as the naming recipient of the NRL’s new women’s rugby league community medal, joining the list of NRL Community Awards.
The Veronica White Medal will be reciprocal to the prestigious Ken Stephen Medal, with both Medals awarded during Grand Final week to players that have demonstrated elite athleticism on the field and a strong commitment to making a positive difference off the field.
Ms White – a rugby league veteran of more than 20 years – has held numerous playing, coaching and administrative roles within rugby league since 1993.
Growing up playing rugby league in her backyard alongside her four brothers, White quickly gained a love for the game and was the first female player from Ipswich to represent Australia.
“This is an incredible honour and something that I never expected,” Ms White said.
“Rugby League has been part of my life since I was a little girl and to be recognised in this way – with a Medal that encompasses the true essence of what rugby league means to me and to so many communities – is such a thrill.
“There are so many wonderful women that have pioneered the way for women’s rugby league to be where it is today, and I share the meaning behind this Medal with all of them – and with the current players, coaches and volunteers.”
NRL Head of Government and Community Relations, Jaymes Boland-Rudder and NRL General Manager of the Elite Women’s Program, Tiffany Slater, added their congratulations to Ms White.
“Veronica is a humble recipient and has been such a wonderful ambassador for women’s rugby league for many years,” Mr Boland-Rudder said.
“It’s fantastic that we will now have a men’s and women’s Community Medal honoured in Grand Final week, reminding us all of the power and positivity of rugby league away from the football field.”
“Women’s Rugby League continues to rise in popularity and presence on and off the field and I was so happy to hear of Veronica’s nomination,” Ms Slater added.
“I have no doubt that as our women’s game continues to grow, so too will the accolades for past and present players across the game.”
A judging panel, consisting of NRL and State representatives, made the final decision to name the medal after Veronica, following more than 60 nominations being whittled down to a short-list of 25 finalists.
Criteria for the Veronica White Medal is in line with the Ken Stephen Medal, with the eventual female recipient having demonstrated their commitment to making a difference in their local community, whilst playing rugby league at an elite level throughout the year.
The NRL Community Awards will now feature eight categories, with all categories now open for State Leagues and NRL clubs to submit nominations.
Award categories for 2019 are:
Veronica White Medal
Ken Stephen Medal
Volunteer of the Year
Teacher of the Year
Young Person of the Year
Women In League Award
Grassroots Club of the Year
Community Program of the Year
