The NRLW would do well to look into more international talent as Dutch international Linneke Gevers joins the Brisbane Broncos on a supplemental contract.
As per updates to the NRLW roster rules, clubs are allowed to now carry two extra players as supplemental players to help manage any injuries or long-term suspensions, with Gevers taking one of those spots at the Broncos.
Hailing from the small Dutch town of Reek – roughly one hour from the capital of Amsterdam – Gevers’ journey is truly a remarkable one.
Initially a rugby union player, her first exposure to rugby league came after she was recommended to try the sport by a friend.
That led to games on the international stage almost immediately when she represented the Netherlands at the World Cup European Qualifiers.
Opportunity is everything and it was Dutch coach Brad Davison who told Gevers she needed to pursue rugby league completely, so she did.
“He saw something in me… after four matches playing for the Dutch team he said, ‘you are crazy, you need to go to Australia,” Gevers said.
“My visa took a long time to come in… after 80-days I actually cancelled my travel plans thinking it wasn’t going to work.
“I came over with the last of my money.”
Gevers would go on to sign with the Tweed Seagulls in the BMD Premiership and made her mark as a prop or back-rower.
Watching the NRLW on Youtube back home in the Netherlands, Gevers admits she never thought an opportunity such as this would come her way.
“I would never guess that I would be here… I’m very grateful that I get this opportunity,” Gevers continued.
“I can only dream of this – playing with the best team in the country.
“The girls are all so nice, and are really good teammates so for me now, it’s making sure that I fit in… I want to make my NRLW debut and then I just want to do well.”
Paul Dyer, the head of the Broncos NRLW program knows that Gevers has earned her opportunity and will use it as a chance to grow and develop as a player.
In the end, it was an easy decision to reward her with this contract, Linny is an effort-based player who gives a hundred per cent at everything she does, she earnt it and it’s well deserved,” Dyer said.
“Whilst she has a lot to learn about the finer tactical aspects of game… I’m sure she will make up for this very quickly with her physical presence, attitude and effort.
“Linny has an infectious personality, and we are really excited to see how she progresses in our Broncos NRLW program.”
