EXCLUSIVE: Ruan Sims Claims Expanded NRLW Competition Will ‘Push Clubs to Improve’

Ruan Sims, a pioneer in women’s rugby league, believes that the expansion of the NRLW to 12 teams this season will not compromise the quality of the competition; rather, it will act as a driving force for further development.

The league is in its strongest position yet, with the Warriors returning after a four-year absence and the Canterbury Bulldogs set to join in 2025.

Though there are fears that expanding the competition might spread the available talent too thin, Sims strongly supports the ongoing growth of the NRLW.

“I recognise there are concerns that adding new teams might dilute the talent pool. I completely understand that,” she shared on Nine’s NRLW Weekly podcast.

“However, the NRLW has approached its expansion in a very measured way. While it may seem slow at times, my view is to keep pushing forward.”

Although the pace of growth has not matched her initial expectations, Sims appreciates the league’s cautious and strategic approach, which has enhanced the sustainability and standard of play.

“You need to consider both sides,” she remarked.

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“There has to be an aspect that encourages progress and another that holds back for assessment. Finding the right balance between risk-taking and caution is essential.

“I believe the NRLW has navigated this balance quite effectively.”

“Initially, I believed we should have launched with six teams from the outset. I didn’t think we should have remained at four for so long. But what’s done is done, and we have advanced at a steady pace.”

Sims sees this season’s expansion as an invaluable chance to elevate the profile of the NRLW—broaden geographical reach, develop new talent pathways, and boost competitiveness for top players.

“The introduction of new teams inspires clubs to innovate, looking beyond traditional boundaries and at practices from other sports,” she explained.

“This might involve scouting athletes from rugby sevens, netball, or basketball—those who are keen to give rugby league a try, or returning players who took a break.”

“It also blends with the emerging young talent eager to break into the NRLW without ever having set the sport aside.”

“Thus, expanding the league makes perfect sense, and it has been executed thoughtfully. I am confident it will encourage clubs to enhance their recruitment strategies and continue to nurture junior pathways.”

Sims is also optimistic that as the NRLW evolves and provides more opportunities, it will draw in “higher quality coaches and staff” to the league.

Co-host and NRLW sideline reporter Marlee Silva concurred that expansion leads to innovation.

Both the Warriors and Bulldogs have made significant strides in recruitment ahead of their upcoming campaigns.

The Bulldogs have assembled a squad that includes a mix of seasoned NRLW players, highlighted by the notable signings of Tayla Preston, Holli Wheeler, Tegan Dymock, Angelina Teakaraanga-Katoa, and Kalosipani Hopoate, as well as promising young talent like Alexis Tauaneai.

In their return, the Warriors have recruited elite talent from rugby sevens, including Olympic gold medallist Michaela Brake, resulting in what Sims described as a “very impressive squad.”

“I’m thrilled to see the Warriors back in the mix. They were part of the NRLW from its inception in 2018, and it’s fantastic to have them return,” Sims remarked.

“The Pacific plays a vital role in rugby league, and it’s crucial to include our Maori, Kiwi, and Pacifica teams and players. They bring immense talent and enrich the cultural fabric of the competition, which we cherish every time these athletes step onto the field.”