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'We're 30 percent better': Warriors ready to make their mark in NRLW season opener
Elena Abbott • July 3rd, 2026 10:19 am
Ron Griffiths | Photo: Photosport
The new NRLW season brings a more refined Warriors team, and head coach Ron Griffiths is excited for the wāhine to get off the mark against the Bulldogs on Sunday.
The Warriors women are feeling confident ahead of their season opener this weekend, with the squad believing they’re ready to take their game to the next level in 2026 after an encouraging comeback campaign last year.
Griffiths says their marquee signings are generating excitement in the camp, with Gayle Broughton and Stacey Waaka bringing valuable experience and leadership to the side.
“What I am excited about is those experienced players being able to really get us through those moments that are testing this weekend and moving forward for the rest of the year,” Griffiths said.
However, the team’s faith doesn’t just stem from the reliability of the veterans, with young players continuing to elevate their performance.
Griffiths says that development has been vital to boost morale, and he’s already seeing promising results.
Gayle Broughton | Photo: John Davidson/Photosport
“I believe right across the board as a collective, we're 30 percent more improved than what we were last year, which is important,” he said.
“Their perspective, their outlook and their input is completely different to what it was 12 months ago.”
But even with their upgraded squad, the Warriors realise it would be foolish to dismiss the Bulldogs.
Griffiths believes their "intimidating" opponents will push the NZ team to their limits, something he is looking forward to.
“(The Warriors) are tough, physical, powerful, they play for their country, they play for the people and play with pride,” he praised.
“Every time that we walk off that ground we want to leave a performance out there that each player is proud of.”
Five players are expected to make their debut for the Warriors on Sunday, including Jay Huriwai, Belle Onesemo-Tuilaepa and Natalia Hickling.
The match against the Bulldogs will kick off in Hamilton at 3.45pm.
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