After making the most of her call-up in her debut season, the Cronulla Sharks have moved to keep talented NRLW forward Stephanie Faulkner at the club until the end of 2027.
Faulkner was the first female player to come through the Sharks pathway system, and even scored two tries on debut.
As her second NRLW season approaches, Faulkner was excited to commit to a new deal at the club she grew up supporting.
“It means so much to re-sign with the club I grew up supporting,” Faulkner said.
“To come through the female pathways and now be in a position to extend my time with a club that means so much to me – it was a no-brainer.
“I’m thankful to the club and the coaching staff for instilling belief in me and I’m really excited for the future.”
Sharks coach Tony Herman admits that Faulkner may have been thrust into the NRLW earlier than anticipated but know she did the job that was required.
“Steph was thrust into the NRLW earlier than we might have expected due to injuries, but she quickly showed she was ready for the challenge,” Herman said.
“It’s not easy to play in the middle week in, week out – especially as a 20-year-old rookie – but Steph more than held her own and grew in confidence throughout the year.
“She’s a trailblazer for other young women coming through our pathways system and we’re keen to see where she can take her game in the seasons ahead.”