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'Pioneer of the women's game': Skinner praises former Jillaroos coach as side prepares for Vegas clash
Sam Kosack • February 19th, 2025 4:47 pm
Interim Jillaroos coach Jess Skinner has praised her predecessor Brad Donald has a pioneer of the women’s game as she turns her attention towards the Jillaroos clash in Las Vegas.
Skinner has assumed the head coach role after Brad Donald resigned from the role at the start of February, after mounting pressure following the decision to not select Dally M winner Olivia Kernick in the squad.
As Skinner prepares the squad to play England in the NRL’s four-match event in Las Vegas, she praised her mentor for paving a way for her to assume the role.
“I’ve been there since 2018 under Brad (Donald) and he's been a pioneer of the women’s game… and in that he's empowered female coaches to come through and provided advocacy for female coaches,” Skinner told SEN 1170 Mornings.
“I happen to be one of those working under him. I learned a lot so stepping into his role has big shoes to fill but I feel really comfortable.
“(I’m) really honoured and really grateful to be able to step in and take the interim role for Vegas.”
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Skinner also insisted that while the trip to Las Vegas is a terrific platform to showcase women’s rugby league, the team is there to win.
“It’s a statement game and we’re excited for the platform that we are going to have to be able to show what the jersey can do,” Skinner said.
“We haven’t played them since 2017 when they were in the last World Cup… it's a high profile game that helps build the women’s space.
“It's great timing for the Jillaroos program as we build towards the 2026 World Cup.
“Vegas is a stage that is world class… it’s not something we’re going over there for a fun thing. It's definitely there for business and to get a job done.”
The Jillaroos clash against England kicks off at 1:15pm AEST on Sunday March 2.
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