As they continue to form their side for their return to the NRLW, the New Zealand Warriors have added current Newcastle Knights forward Laishon Albert-Jones.
Albert-Jones, who has enjoyed a strong season with the back-to-back premiers, joins the Warriors for seasons 2025 and 2026 with another mutual option in place for 2027.
It is another good forward piece for the Warriors as Albert-Jones returns home and establishes the roots and identity of the Warriors club itself.
Warriors coach Ron Griffiths praised Albert-Jones for her form this year and the experience she brings.
“Laishon is an international player who is adept in many positions and will bring a wealth of experience having already won an NRLW premiership,” said Griffiths.
“When Laishon signed her first NRLW contract she was adamant that she wanted only a two-year contract so when the Warriors came back into the competition she could return home.
“This has now come to fruition, what a marvellous moment for Laishon and for the Warriors.”
Albert-Jones admits that leaving the Knights was a tough decision but the opportunity to return home was too good to pass up.
“Signing with the Warriors and coming back to New Zealand is a huge honour for me,” said Albert-Jones.
“Being part of the team as we make our return to the NRLW means everything especially knowing the potential we have to lift women’s rugby league back home.
“It wasn’t an easy decision to make. Leaving Newcastle and the girls is probably one of the hardest decisions I’ve had to make but having the opportunity to come home and be part of something special was hard to pass up.”
Factoring into Albert-Jones’ decision is that she has worked with Griffiths before during his tenure as Knights coach in the past.
“Having worked with Ron before, I know how committed he is to building a winning culture,” Albert-Jones continued.
“He’s a coach who genuinely cares about the players and the team’s overall development. He’s been clear about his high expectations and the hard work required.”
