Manly Warringah Sea Eagles are fielding a Harvey Norman NSW Women’s Premiership team for the first time in 2024.
The only statewide open age competition for women in NSW, the Sea Eagles take on traditional rivals Parramatta Eels at 3pm on Saturday, July 6, at 4 Pines Park, Brookvale.
We caught up with inaugural captain Shontelle Stowers to get to know more about her.
Player Profile
Name: Shontelle Stowers
DOB: 14/11/1986
Birthplace: Tokoroa, NZ.
Position: Centre
Nickname: Shon, Shonny
What's your favorite rugby league memory growing up?
Watching my uncles and cousins play and being with all the family at the clubhouse afterwards
Who are your favourite rugby league players in NRL or NRLW?
I can't go past the GOAT, Ali Brigginshaw. Been through all the growth and contributed and driven women's rugby league from the start.
What does it mean to you to be part of the first Manly Harvey Norman’s Women’s team?
It's a foundation team, a timestamp in history of the women's game, and for the Northern Beaches, it will be there forever. It's huge and to be a part of it is a privilege. I have learnt to appreciate these moments at grass roots, understanding all great things come from them, our NRLW, and our international moments, all begin here with the clubs and the community.
Funniest team-mate?
Not sure yet, but I have a feeling Mia Holo, Kayla Eli, and Lavinia Tauhalaliku are picks for the future personalities
What are your goals this season?
To help grow the game of women's rugby league on the Northern Beaches and show what talent we have, and that we are an investment worth investing in. I want to share my knowledge and have fun playing rugby league. I want to enjoy everything about our community, players, management and the support we get.
Tell us about your family and any special achievements?
Healthy and happy wonderful nieces, nephew and family.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Beach and outdoors
Are you a morning person or a night owl?
Morning
Coach Keith Hanley says:
"Shontelle has played in NRLW Grand Finals, State of Origin for NSW, and prior to that, had a really long history in rugby union, where she represented Australia. She is a person who sets high standards in terms of what she expects from team-mates and what that should look like. Shontelle exemplifies what we want to set for our team here at Manly.”
