Tarryn Aiken’s exceptional year in rugby league has been recognised as she was awarded the women’s IRL Golden Boot, honouring her as the international player of the year.
In 2024, Aiken revelled in success, clinching a premiership with the Sydney Roosters, celebrating a historic State of Origin series win with the Queensland Maroons, and emerging victorious with the Australian Jillaroos in the Pacific Cup.
She received her Golden Boot trophy from NRL Hall of Famer Tarsha Gale at Rugby League Central in Sydney this past Friday.
Tarryn Aiken is handed the IRL Woman’s Golden Boot trophy by NRL Hall of Famer Tarsha Gale. @jimmyjack244 via X
This accolade adds to Aiken’s growing portfolio of achievements this year, which features the Karyn Murphy Medal, recognising her as the best player in the Roosters’ thrilling 32-28 NRLW grand final win over the Sharks, and being named player of the match in the Jillaroos’ dominant 24-4 triumph against the Kiwi Ferns in the Pacific Championships final.
Karyn Murphy herself was among the judges for the Golden Boot, alongside New Zealand dual-code sensation Honey Hireme-Smiler and England’s Danika Priim.
The panel unanimously agreed in favour of Aiken.
Transitioning from the position of five-eighth to halfback this year has unleashed the 25-year-old’s speed and strength, having previously represented Australia in touch football.
“It hasn’t fully sunk in yet. It still feels somewhat surreal,” Aiken expressed to News Corp.
“It’s a tremendous honour to receive such a prestigious award, and I’m truly grateful for it.”
Tarryn Aiken displays her medal for player of the match during the Pacific Cup women’s final against the New Zealand Kiwi Ferns. Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
“It doesn’t feel particularly different [compared to previous years in my performance]. There’s been a lot of success, but I attribute that to the teams and systems I’ve been part of.
“Being with the Roosters has significantly enhanced my football abilities and taken my game to new heights.
“I’ve traditionally played as a six, but since joining the Roosters, ‘Strangey’ [coach John Strange] has helped me grasp the game more thoroughly and refine my ability to lead the team rather than just relying on instinct.”
Aiken is excited about Strange’s new role as head coach of the NSW Sky Blues, despite his cheeky comment wishing for her absence from next year’s Origin series due to injury.
Replacing Kylie Hilder in this position, Strange acknowledged that players like Aiken will pose challenges as the Sky Blues aim to reclaim the shield in 2025.
Aiken brushed off the joke, arguing that Strange wouldn’t want her sidelined for too long, especially with the Roosters poised for another title run.
“He clearly doesn’t want me injured for an extended period because he wants me to compete in the NRLW,” she remarked.
“I’m delighted for him. He truly deserves this position; I firmly believe he’s the best coach in women’s rugby league. His coaching will greatly benefit State of Origin and the women’s game overall.”
“I don’t think it’ll be awkward [at the Roosters]. I frequently consult him during the season, so collaborating with the game plan he formulates against me will certainly be intriguing.”
On the same day, Kangaroos captain Isaah Yeo was also presented with the men’s Golden Boot award.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
Fanpage: SportArena.com.au.
LiveScore – Live Sports Results & Odds.
