Former Jillaroos and State of Origin representative Nakia Davis-Welsh will make her NRLW comeback with Parramatta, as the reigning runners-up look to go one better this season.
The cousin of NRL legend Greg Inglis, Davis-Welsh has not been contracted with an NRLW side since signing for the Sydney Roosters in the inaugural 2018 premiership.
Prior to that she played fullback for the Jillaroos in their win over New Zealand in the 2017 World Cup final and represented both NSW and the Indigenous All Stars.
Davis-Welsh has yet to play an NRLW match, having fallen pregnant three weeks after signing with the Roosters.
The 26-year-old gave birth again in 2021 and has spent her hiatus raising two children.
“It has been a dream of mine to play again since becoming a mother and I can’t thank the Eels enough for giving me this opportunity,” Davis-Welsh said.
“I hope I can be a role model for other women out there who want to play professional sport and also have a family.”
Davis-Welsh joins Papua New Guinean international captain Elsie Albert and NSW playmaker Rachael Pearson as one of three new players for the Eels so far.
Davis-Welsh is capable of playing in the halves so could partner Pearson there when the season begins in July, or replace outgoing rugby sevens convert Gayle Broughton at fullback.
Kennedy and Reuben Cherrington, Abbi Church and Zali Fay have all re-signed with Parramatta but Dean Widders’ side will need to contend with the losses Broughton and co-captain Simaima Taufa among others.
The 10 NRLW sides have until May 24 to finalise their rosters and Parramatta head of football Mark O’Neill is looking forward to welcoming Davis-Welsh for pre-season.
“Nakia is an inspiration for other athletes and aspiring athletes,” he said.
“She has shown huge determination in returning to the top level and the Eels are thrilled to offer her an opportunity to show her talent in the NRLW.
“It’s pleasing to see the game supporting women from all walks of life in making it possible to have both a family and rugby league career.”
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